Legislators, support MINDS Act

As a Human Services student, and mother, I understand the importance of mental health for physical and intellectual growth and development. Unfortunately, millions of kids around the globe struggle with mental health challenges. Poverty, hunger, trauma, mistreatment, and discrimination all increase susceptibility to mental health disorders. With 452 million children living in areas affected by conflict and one in five eating too little to maintain healthy growth, this problem demands a solution.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it’s a time for us to show that every child, regardless of their location, deserves a safe, happy, and healthy life, and their mental health is no exception. This is why I am joining Save the Children Action Network's efforts to urge Ashley Hinson, Chuck Grassley, and Joni Ernst to endorse the Mental Health in International Development and Humanitarian Settings (MINDS) Act.

This piece of bipartisan legislation would prioritize mental health and psychosocial support as a critical component of U.S. foreign aid. Incredibly, this legislation wouldn't cost our government any additional funds. Yet, it could prevent or treat mental health disorders and promote psychosocial well-being for children worldwide living in adversity. It is especially crucial for children exposed to the traumatic and scarring conditions of conflict.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s all let our policymakers know that investing in children’s mental health and psychosocial well-being is an investment in the long-term success of our global community and a brighter future for everyone.

Ariel Jimenez

Cedar Rapids