NEW LAW MANDATING MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION TO TAKE EFFECT
A new law in the state of New York has taken effect, which requires schools to teach mental health to students in elementary, middle as well as high school.
The new measure was passed and signed into law back in 2016. It requires schools to include teaching about mental health in traditional physical education as well as health classes.
The law goes into effect this week.
The intention of the mandate is to assist students to have a better understanding about emotional and mental wellness, and to assist them in understanding when to seek help for themselves or others.
Supporters say that the law may help to prevent later substance abuse and suicides by giving students important information about mental well-being.
Glenn Liebman, chief executive of the Mental Health Association of New York State, notes this new law as “groundbreaking”.