The alliance will uplift, amplify, and center youth voices in mental health policy discussions and changes
WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The Jed Foundation (JED), a leading nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for teens and young adults nationwide, and Young Invincibles (YI) announce the launch of the inaugural Youth Advocacy Coalition (YAC). The coalition was introduced on Thursday, September 26, during a congressional briefing at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center in Washington, D.C., bringing together policymakers, decision-makers, and advocacy group representatives to drive positive mental health policy change.
College students from across the country, hand-selected by coalition members, are also joining the YAC to amplify youth voices and drive change through education, advocacy, and storytelling. Each participating youth advocate will be appointed based on robust vetting criteria, including the impact they’ve forged in their communities as strong supporters of mental health and well-being. YAC student members will participate in a 10-week virtual training covering key advocacy strategies, policy issues, agenda, and coalition priorities. The youth advocates will have the opportunity to put learning to practice this October in Washington, D.C., by engaging with congressional offices, agency leads, and advocacy organizations during “Hill Day” and will be formally announced during JED’s second-annual Policy Summit, “Empowering Minds: Policy Driven Solutions for Youth Mental Health,” scheduled for October 1-2.
“As we advance mental health policy, it is crucial to include the voices and perspectives of youth in discussions that directly impact their lives,” said Dr. Zainab Okolo, JED Senior Vice President of Policy, Advocacy, and Government Relations. “Their involvement is not only valuable but essential for crafting effective and inclusive policies. The Youth Advocacy Coalition is dedicated to amplifying youth voices and fostering collaboration among key organizations. Together, JED and Young Invincibles (YI) proudly support young mental health advocates and remain committed to ensuring they lead the vital conversations that shape legislation and influence their futures.”
Recent studies underscore the urgent need for such initiatives: 41% of college students screened positive for depression and 36% for anxiety. Among college students, 30% had been diagnosed with depression and 36% with anxiety.
“Young adults are suffering a mental health crisis that is fueled by so many facets of life, our economy, society, and technology – and these young leaders will be the ones to pave the way to a mental health care system where everyone has access to critical help,” said Kristin McGuire, Young Invincibles Executive Director. “We are so honored to be included in this Youth Advocacy Coalition with so many amazing groups fighting for mental health care access. Together, this coalition can find solutions for meaningful change.”
YAC student members will also spend a portion of their time in advance of the upcoming elections raising awareness of the importance of implementing effective mental health and suicide prevention policies and youth engagement in advocating for these policies. Research shows that civic activities like voting and volunteering boost mental health and foster a connection to democratic processes, while a separate 2023 survey found higher satisfaction with U.S. democracy among civically engaged young adults.
As the Youth Advocacy Coalition embarks on this journey, it represents a pivotal moment in advancing youth mental health policy. By uniting the voices of young advocates with the expertise of the nation’s leading organizations, YAC is addressing today’s crucial mental health needs and also equipping the next generation to take the lead in shaping solutions. Together, this coalition is committed to driving meaningful policy reforms that prioritize the well-being of youth nationwide, fostering a future where mental health support is accessible, inclusive, and transformative.
To view photos of the Youth Advocacy Coalition press conference, click here.
For more information on JED’s policy, advocacy, and government relations work, please visit our website.
JED is a nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for our nation’s teens and young adults. We’re partnering with high schools and colleges to strengthen their mental health, substance misuse, and suicide prevention programs and systems. We’re equipping teens and young adults with the skills and knowledge to help themselves and each other. We’re encouraging community awareness, understanding, and action for young adult mental health.
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Young Invincibles (YI) is a national advocacy and policy nonprofit organization focused on amplifying the voice of young people in the political process at the local, state, and federal levels. YI focuses on issues impacting young adults ages 18 to 34 in higher education, health care, economic security, and civic engagement. Our offices include Washington, D.C., California, Colorado, Illinois, New York, and Texas.
Contacts
Media Contacts
Justin Barbo
Director, Public Relations
The Jed Foundation
Justin@jedfoundation.org
(914) 844-4611
FINN Partners
jedteam@finnpartners.com
