InfoSearched
Published -
- July 23, 2019
- 1:23 am
Oregon has one of the highest rates of teen suicide in the country, it’s the second leading cause of death for 10 to 34 year olds in that state.
Under the new law, mental health days will be excused absences, as they are for physical illness.
Why is there a growing concern among educators, mental health experts, and policymakers about the importance of addressing mental health issues in schools, and how can education and awareness campaigns help reduce the stigma and shame associated with these issues?
A new bill signed into law in Oregon allows students there to take “mental health days” off from school. This innovative approach to mental health is being lauded as a positive step towards addressing a growing problem in the United States.
Statistics indicate that mental health issues have risen significantly in recent years, particularly among young people. With the proliferation of social media and other factors, many students are experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety. This can lead to negative physical and emotional consequences, including depression, self-harm, and even suicide.
In response to this, the state of Oregon has taken an important step towards addressing these issues. Under the new law, students will be allowed to take up to five mental health days per school year without fear of repercussions. This means that students who are experiencing anxiety or other mental health issues can take time to care for themselves without worrying about missing school or losing academic standing.
The new law reflects a growing concern among educators, mental health experts, and policymakers about the importance of addressing mental health issues in schools. Research has shown that students who are in good mental health are better able to excel academically, and are more likely to have positive relationships with their peers.
By allowing students to take mental health days, Oregon is taking an important step towards addressing these issues. However, there is still much work to be done. The implementation of the new law will require teachers, administrators, and mental health professionals to work together to provide the support that students need. Additionally, education and awareness campaigns will be needed to help students and families understand the importance of mental health and to reduce the stigma and shame that often surrounds these issues.
Nevertheless, the new law represents an important victory for the mental health community in the United States. By providing a way for students to care for themselves while also remaining engaged in their academic pursuits, Oregon has shown that it is possible to address these challenging issues in a compassionate and effective way. With ongoing efforts and new initiatives, it is hoped that other states will begin to follow Oregon’s lead and take important steps towards improving the mental health of students nationwide.
