Friend, today is World Mental Health Day, and we have a historic chance to prioritize, protect and care for the mental health of an entire generation.
UNICEF’s 2021 State of the World’s Children report, On My Mind: Promoting, Protecting and Caring for Children’s Mental Health, shows that governments and societies are investing far too little in addressing the mental health of children and their caregivers. Despite demand for support, median government investment in mental health care globally is a mere 2.1 percent of the median overall health spending. As a result, we undercut children’s capacity to learn, work, build meaningful relationships and contribute to the world.
The Mental Health in International Development and Humanitarian Settings (MINDS) Act is a first-of-its-kind U.S. legislation that enhances mental health and psychological support in foreign assistance. In a time when the world’s children are living at the intersection of so many complex crises like COVID-19, destruction from natural disasters and more, we need intentional investment in mental health care.
Today for World Mental Health Day, do something that will help improve mental health for children around the world. Tell your elected officials to cosponsor and pass the bipartisan MINDS Act!
With the right investment and commitment, we can provide a foundation for an entire generation to be equipped to pursue their dreams, reach their potential and contribute to the world. Are you with us?
UNICEF USA |
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