On March 13th, students from Catskill Middle and High School attended Mental Health Matters Day in Albany, an annual event organized by the Mental Health Association in New York State (MHANYS). The students shared their experiences with state lawmakers to help them understand the importance of ongoing investment to support the mental wellness of New Yorkers. The students highlighted concerns regarding issues of mental health in schools and advocated for the continued support of the School Mental Health Resource and Training Center.

“I have been lucky to have the opportunity to be a part of Advocacy Day for all four years of high school,” stated Catskill senior Samantha Weber. “It has been an interesting experience to watch the legislative process. My freshman year I was part of the group of students that advocated for the Mental Health Education Law. It was exciting when it was signed into law later that year. A School Mental Health Resource Center was established to help schools transition into implementing this law. To be able to go back and advocate for the continued funding for this vital resource was an amazing experience.”

Throughout the day students learned about important policy issues related to mental health and met with Senator Amedore’s office. They were actively engaged in the legislative process and gained an appreciation for the importance of advocacy. The students concluded their day with an empowering rally on the steps of the Capital.