On September 17, Mental Health America hosted the 2024 National Policy Institute: Social Drivers of Mental Health in Washington, D.C. This important event delved into the crucial impact of social drivers – such as access to integrated care in schools, stable housing, nutritious food, and economic security – on the mental well-being of our youth and their families. The discussions revolved around the pressing need for more social workers in schools to support students, the importance of creating communities that provide housing for all to combat homelessness, and how young people can rely on their peers to navigate the available economic support systems within our communities.
The event featured a lineup of distinguished speakers and panelists, including Simon Borger, the Vice President for Mental Health and Wellness at Kaiser Permanente; Lena O’Rourke from the Healthy Schools Campaign; Jessica Lee from the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services; Richard Cho from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development; Sakeenah Shabazz from the U.S. Department of Agriculture; Tegan Lecheler from the Bridge Project; Anna Bailey from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities; and Saiarchana Darira, a former participant in MHA’s Youth Policy Accelerator.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of the Youth Policy Advocacy Award to Cole Ramsey from Indiana. In his acceptance speech, Cole emphasized the importance of giving youth a seat at the table when addressing mental health issues. He stated, “I implore leaders across the nation, whether in small rural towns like mine or bustling urban centers, to listen to the youth. They are the experts on their own experiences with mental health, and their insights are invaluable.”
