AGENCY TESTIMONY
Response to Intro 996 - Peer-to-peer mental health training program
0:14:16
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104 sec
Dr. Smith addresses Introduction 996, which proposes the development of a peer-to-peer mental health training program in schools.
- Peer support programs should complement, not substitute, clinical services by trained professionals
- The health department recognizes the value of peer support programs for youth mental health
- Two exciting conversations about peer-to-peer programs are happening:
- Chancellor Student Advisory Committee recommends peer-to-peer programs facilitated by school counselors or mental health professionals
- Teen Mental Health First Aid training is being considered
- The department looks forward to collaborating with the council and NYC Public Schools to strengthen youth mental health initiatives
Dr. Erica Lynne Smith
0:14:16
I will now speak to introduction 996, which would require the health department to develop and offer a peer to peer mental health training program in schools and New York City public schools to distribute information to students on such programs.
0:14:31
Peer to peers, support programs should complement rather than substitute for clinical services provided by trained mental health professionals.
0:14:41
The health department understands the value of peer support programs for youth mental health as part of a comprehensive approach.
0:14:47
New York City Public Schools is seeing excitement from students who want to do the work because they understand the importance of their own mental health and engaging with fellow students.
0:14:57
There are 2 exciting conversations about peer to peer programs happening.
0:15:01
First, the 2023, 24 Chancellor Student Advisory Committee or CSAC, in partnership with New York City Public School staff, recommend the development of peer to peer programs facilitated by a school counselor or mental health professional.
0:15:15
We look forward secondly, teen mental health first aid training that teaches teens to listen without judgment to their peers and seek adult support when needed are part of the conversation.
0:15:28
We look forward to speaking with council to determine ways forward for student proposals like this to come to fruition, ways to support promising peer to peer programs currently in in pilot phases through processes in which students feel seen and heard.
0:15:42
The Office of School Health, the health department, and New York City Public Schools are committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of our students.
0:15:50
Thank you for the opportunity to testify today.
0:15:53
We look forward to collaborating with the council and New York City Public Schools to strengthen youth and mental health initiatives.
0:15:58
I'm happy to answer any questions.
