Mental Health Services in Public Schools

By Jamye Grace Aquino Kamali’i

I am looking forward to seeing mental health services implemented into our public schools when our education system is fully funded. I believe that mental health services are an essential resource that all students deserve, rather than a luxury. It is an essential resource because of how much mental health services aid students in reaching their educational goals while staying safe and healthy.. Students can thrive when they have access to counselors, psychologists, support groups, individual therapy, family engagement, emergency and coordination care. I am looking forward to all schools having these options because it provides students the care and stability they need. Administrators with the correct qualifications to handle mental health services are able to provide students with positive school climates, social-emotional support, and even prevention and intervention. These critical opportunities are important to be implemented in schools to allow students to prioritize their own mental health without fear of risking their academic standing. All students deserve fully-funded schools with comprehensive mental health services.