Letters: Schools must show that mental health is critical for students

"When the budget is being done every year, mental health is the first on the chopping block: the counselors, who are our first defense against suicide by young boys. Of course, we cannot afford to do this, but who cares? Mental health is the flogging horse. No one is willing to bell the cat. People die by suicide and in shootings. Nearly 47,000 people die a year, and no one cares."

"If men and boys make up nearly 80% of the suicides in the United States, then something is broken in our country. Violence, substance abuse, unemployment and homelessness are the results of untreated mental health issues in our male population. Women and girls also struggle with mental health issues, but are more likely to seek help. Positive male role models are what's needed in homes, schools and communities and on television."

School counselors often serve as the first defense against youth suicide, yet annual budgets routinely cut mental-health services. Untreated mental illness contributes to suicides, shootings, substance abuse, unemployment and homelessness, especially among men and boys who are less likely to seek help. Availability of firearms exacerbates fatal outcomes. Reduced psychiatric infrastructure since the 1980s has left many mentally ill people without safe care. Positive male role models, attentive caregivers, and well-funded school counseling programs are essential to identify struggling youth and provide timely support. Mothers and schools play crucial roles in supporting boys.

Read at The Mercury News