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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2019 - 2020
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | January 23, 2020 01:22 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Christina D. Sappey |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Higher Education Mental Health Awareness Week |
| The number of college students of all socio-economic, racial and gender identification reporting mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and eating disorders has been steadily on the rise. The stigma surrounding mental health prevents many of these students from seeking help. When they do seek assistance, they are frequently confronted with the fact that there are not enough counselors or resources available to them. Students also frequently experience long wait times to obtain an appointment if they are not immediately suicidal. To help raise awareness of the mental health crisis in higher education and to encourage open dialogue on this issue, I am introducing a resolution to designate the week of May 3 through 9 as Higher Education Mental Health Awareness Week in Pennsylvania. As Mental Health Awareness Month is observed in May across the United States, this is a perfect week to put a special focus on mental health in our colleges and universities. We must do more to remove stigma and support those students suffering in the higher education setting. It is crucial that we help our students understand and access the resources available to them when they are struggling with a mental health issue—just like we would recommend a doctor if they were experiencing physical pain. As legislators, we must send a message that mental health is a vital part of overall health, and we must acknowledge the number of young people requiring support in higher education, so that they can focus on their education and go on to become healthy, productive adults. Please join me in raising awareness for this important issue by co-sponsoring this resolution. |
Introduced as HR847