Provides mental telehealth services to children, adolescents, and young adults

• Democratic2

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Samra Brouk says this is needed

Demand for youth mental health and substance use services was increasing even before the pandemic, and COVID-19 has led to social isolation, a loss of normal routine, trauma, and grief for many. Troublingly, rates of anxiety and depression amongst youth have surged, and suicide is the second leading cause of death among those aged 10 to 24. Unfortunately, mental health emergency room visits for children from age 5-17 increased approximately 30% in 2020, and suicide attempts were 51% higher for girls aged 12-17. It is safe to say that a youth mental health crisis is at our doorstep, and the impacts of the continuing pandemic are likely to exacerbate the need for access to care. New York State needs to quickly and effectively respond to the mental health needs of our youth, including the significant disparities in access for young people of color, Indigenous youth, and LGBTQ+ youth. If we fail to act today, the impacts of poor mental health will continue to affect the lives of many in the future. All New Yorkers will benefit from improved access to mental health services. This bill will create a free-of-charge youth telehealth program to reach children and their families who may not have access to in-person mental health treatment.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.