May 20, 2026
Mr. Husted (for himself and Mr. Fetterman) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
Supporting the designation of May 3 through May 9, 2026, as Children's Mental Health Awareness Week
.
Whereas millions of youth in the United States struggle with mental health challenges, many of which suffer undiagnosed and untreated;
Whereas adults who struggle with mental health often show symptoms in their youth that go unaddressed and can continue later in life;
Whereas childhood and adolescence can be challenging times in life, leaving our youth especially vulnerable to anxiety, depression, and self-harm;
Whereas stigma surrounding mental health often prevents youth from seeking the help and support they need, which can exacerbate the effects of mental health conditions;
Whereas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mental health conditions are chronic conditions, and untreated mental health conditions can harm the development and well-being of children, impacting their academic, social, and home environments;
Whereas youth suicide continues to be a significant public health crisis, affecting families, individuals, and communities, and there is a need for extensive suicide awareness and prevention programs; and
Whereas May 3 through May 9, 2026, is an opportunity to strengthen public awareness of youth mental health conditions and advocate for meaningful action to improve mental health care for children in the United States: Now, therefore, be it
That the Senate—
(1)
supports the designation of May 3 through May 9, 2026, as Children's Mental Health Awareness Week
to raise awareness of the mental health conditions facing our children and the importance of early detection, treatment, intervention, and prevention strategies;
(2)
recognizes the relationship between children’s mental well-being and plenty of outdoor recreation, a healthy diet, regular socialization with peers, and adequate sleep;
(3)
urges youth mental health be categorized as a national priority and calls for the continued promotion of mental health in schools and communities;
(4)
applauds the collaboration of local, State, and Federal organizations in promoting awareness of youth mental health and providing support for those in need;
(5)
advocates for individuals, families, and communities to participate in activities during Children's Mental Health Awareness Week
to promote mental health initiatives, reduce stigma, and facilitate access to essential services and resources; and
(6)
reaffirms the importance of mental health as a necessary aspect of overall well-being and urges continued efforts to facilitate access to mental health care for the children of the United States.