Sens. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) and John Fetterman (D-Pa.) introduced a resolution on May 4 to support the designation of May 3 through May 9, 2026, as Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week.
The resolution aims to raise awareness about children’s mental health and emphasizes the importance of early detection, treatment, intervention, and prevention strategies. This comes as rates of mental health conditions among Ohio children and youth have increased in recent years.
Husted said, “As the youth mental health crisis continues to grow across our country and in Ohio, it is critical that we highlight the importance of supporting our children. This resolution recognizes the need for prevention, early intervention and treatment while applauding those working every day to improve the well-being of our kids.”
The resolution supports recognizing Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week each year during early May. It also acknowledges connections between children’s mental well-being and factors such as outdoor recreation, healthy diet, regular socialization with peers, and adequate sleep. The measure urges making youth mental health a national priority by promoting related initiatives in schools and communities. It further commends collaboration among local, state, and federal organizations working to provide support for young people.
Additionally, families are encouraged to participate in activities during Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week to promote mental wellness initiatives and reduce stigma around seeking help. The full text of the resolution is available online.
According to the official website, Husted has raised three children with his wife Tina while living in Columbus. He earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Dayton according to his official biography. Husted serves on Senate committees focused on health; education; labor; pensions; small business; entrepreneurship; environment; public works; and aging according to his official website.
Before joining the U.S. Senate, Husted served as Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives where he advanced tax reductions and educational choice scholarships according to his official biography. He later held positions as Ohio secretary of state and lieutenant governor prior to being elected senator according to information provided by his office.
