According to a report from the Bipartisan Policy Center, a nonprofit that works with Democrats and Republicans on legislation, increased access to youth behavioral health and substance abuse services is a dire need. The report recommends efforts to help meet the need, which include the following:
-Schools should partner with pediatricians and community-based health services to address the increased demand for youth mental health supports.
-The U.S. Department of Education (USDE), along with other federal agencies, should provide guidance and technical support for youth crisis response across various settings, including K-12 schools, higher education, homes, and military and community settings.
-Due to an increased demand for youth mental services and a shortage of youth behavioral specialists, there is tremendous need for local, state and federal collaboration and policy change.
For more from details regarding the report, visit K-12 Dive by clicking here.