Mental Health Awareness And Improvement Act

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Mental Health Awareness and Improvement Act 2013 Natalia Konieczkowski Central Connecticut State University NRSE 480 The importance of mental health and its effect on individuals has been underestimated. The stigma and discrimination of those affected by mental disorders still exists today. The advancing technology and thorough research are slowly moving towards a less discriminating and better understanding of mental health. More and more patients especially children and adolescents are being diagnosed with different mental disorders. Not enough programs and grants are given to screen and protect children from developing mental illness conditions. In order to maintain mental health’s importance and decrease the stigma associated with it, further education, prevention, and promotion is necessary. In order to support mental health especially in children and adolescents several legislatures have been created. The current legislative issue that is being debated is the Mental Health Awareness and Improvement Act of 2013. This bill has been created to strengthen the mental health system, reauthorize, and improve programs related to mental health and substance abuse. Title one of the legislation focuses on promotion of school wide prevention and the development of positive behavioral plans and support systems. Title two of the legislation focuses on suicide prevention, mental health awareness for teachers and helping children recover from traumatic events. ("US Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, & Pensions: Newsroom, 2013) The bill has been introduced and referred by the Committee on April 9, 2013. On April 10, 2013, the bill had been sent to the House for consideration. The bill has been app... ... middle of paper ... ...y school in December of 2012 has affected me not only as a person but also as a student and a future nurse. This terrifying event has highlighted the need to help schools provide safe, secure, and appropriate learning environments for all students in the nation. I am pleased to support this approach to make schools safer and address mental health needs as well as expand access to mental health services. I also look forward to see the changes as we recognize the requirements to meet student’s educational and academic needs as well as enhance mental health programs and crisis management plans nationwide. I fully support the Mental Health Awareness and Improvement Act of 2013. I also thank you for taking the steps to address this difficult and sensitive issue and I look forward to continuing to work with you as a future nurse. Sincerely, Natalia Konieczkowski

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