Updates on Transformative Investments in Mental Health Services and Programs for Youth and Families

Boston plans to invest $21 million over five years to enhance mental health services for youth and families. In its first year, the initiative trained 318 mental health practitioners and provided behavioral health training to over 1,090 youth-facing staff, directly supporting more than 2,000 youth. Mayor Michelle Wu emphasized the need for accessible mental health care, stating it is as crucial as physical health. Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Boston’s Public Health Commissioner, highlighted training for culturally diverse health care providers as a response to the youth mental health crisis.

Superintendent Mary Skipper noted the link between academic success and social-emotional health, urging open mental health conversations. The Center for Behavioral Health and Wellness is collaborating with UMass Boston to increase the number of diverse mental health clinicians. A new fellowship program supports students in behavioral health careers while committing to serve Boston for three years post-graduation. The initiative also addresses structural racism and trauma's impact on students through training sessions and community-building events.