WHEREAS, Student mental health needs too often go unnoticed or unaddressed at school; and

WHEREAS, Reducing the stigma surrounding mental health will empower students to speak up when they need help; and

WHEREAS, Research has shown that adverse childhood experiences have lasting harmful impacts and can leave students feeling disenfranchised if not addressed; and

WHEREAS, Students in California are subjected to community- and school-based acts of violence or threats; and

WHEREAS, Many students in California have experienced traumatic natural disaster events, including wildfires, mudslides, evacuations, and earthquakes; and

WHEREAS, The overuse of social media can result in students feeling disconnected from their peers; and

WHEREAS, The early identification of, intervention in, and treatment of mental health and behavioral issues is paramount for a healthy student body and school community; and

WHEREAS, Prekindergarten, kindergarten, and grades 1 to 12, inclusive, through their unique role in serving children and youth, have an opportunity to address student health early and effectively; and

WHEREAS, The need for comprehensive, coordinated mental health services for students in school is a critical responsibility as part of an overall education plan; and

WHEREAS, Addressing the complex mental health needs of California students today is fundamental to the future of California; and

WHEREAS, It is appropriate that a week should be set aside each year for the direction of our thoughts towards our students mental health and well-being; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby declares the week of May 9, 2022, to May 13, 2022, inclusive, as Student Mental Health Week in California; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.

ACR 179: Student Mental Health Week.

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