Mental Health Awareness and Enhancement Act of 2013 Natalia KonieczkowskiCentral Connecticut State UniversityNRSE 480The Importance of Mental Health and Its Effects on Individuals were underestimated. Stigma and discrimination against people affected by mental disorders still exist today. Technological advancements and in-depth research are slowly moving toward a less discriminatory and better understanding of mental health. More and more patients, especially children and adolescents, are being diagnosed with different mental disorders. Too few programs and grants are provided to screen and protect children from developing mental illnesses. To maintain the importance of mental health and reduce the stigma associated with it, further education, prevention and promotion are needed. In order to support mental health, especially among children and adolescents, several legislatures have been created. The legislative issue currently being debated is the Mental Health Awareness and Improvement Act of 2013. This bill was created to strengthen the mental health system, reauthorize and improve programs related to mental health and substance abuse. The first title of the legislation focuses on promoting school-wide prevention and developing positive behavior plans and support systems. Title Two of the legislation focuses on suicide prevention, mental health awareness for teachers and helping children recover from traumatic events. ("U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions: Newsroom, 2013) The bill was introduced and referred by the committee on April 9, 2013. On April 10, 2013, the bill law was sent to the House for The bill was implemented ...... middle of paper ...... y school in December 2012 affected me not only as a person but also as a as a student and future nurse. stressed the need to help schools provide safe, secure and appropriate learning environments for all students across the country. I am happy to support this approach to making schools safer and addressing mental health needs, as well as expanding access to mental health services. I look forward to seeing the changes as we recognize the requirements to meet the educational and academic needs of students as well as enhance mental health programs and crisis management plans nationwide. I fully support the Mental Health Awareness and Improvement Act of 2013. I also thank you for taking the steps to address this difficult and sensitive issue and I look forward to continuing to work with you as a future nurse. Kind regards, Natalia Konieczkowski