Today, we recognize Teen Mental Health Wellness Day, and this year is especially meaningful as we also mark the 10-year anniversary of New York State’s Mental Health Education Law, which made mental health instruction a required part of K–12 health education.
For a decade, New York has affirmed that mental health is health. Through Teen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA), we are building on that foundation by equipping students in grades 9–12 with the skills to:
- Recognize signs of mental health and substance use challenges
- Support a friend using a safe, evidence-based action plan
- Connect peers to trusted adults and professional help
- Reduce stigma and strengthen school communities
As we look ahead to Mental Health Matters Day, we’re reminded that awareness must lead to action. Mental health literacy, early intervention, and peer support are how we turn policy into practice and compassion into culture.
Registration is now open for Mental Health Matters Day on March 11:
mhanys.org/mh_update/registration-now-open-for-mental-health-matters-day-on-march-11/
Learn more about Teen and Youth Mental Health First Aid and how to get involved:
mentalhealthednys.org/ymhfa-tmhfa/
