We need help getting comprehensive mental health services for students.  Through American Rescue Plan (ARP) New Jersey alone was allotted 2.7 billion to rebuild the school systems and address the issues within it.  We are demanding that some of these funds are utilized to combat the mental health crisis students are facing. 

Researchers around the world have documented decreases in children's well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a national survey in the United States, 14% of parents reported a reduction in their children's behavioral health due to the pandemic. 

Parents also report increases in clinical mental health conditions among their children, with a five-percentage-point increase in anxiety and a six-percentage-point increase in depression. They also report increases in behaviors such as social withdrawal, self-isolation, lethargy, and irrational fears. 

We want schools to provide comprehensive services for their students to alleviate stress related to the pandemic and provide a better future for our students.