City of Seattle announces 7M in youth mental health spending

Seattle has announced a $7 million investment aimed at expanding mental health services for youth, particularly in light of last year's tragic shooting at Garfield High School. This funding is part of a broader $14. 5 million plan initiated by Mayor Bruce Harrell, which focuses on intervention and mental health support. The program includes a collaboration with Talkspace, an online therapy platform, to provide flexible telehealth options for young people. Increased staffing at school-based health centers will also be part of the initiative, ensuring that students have access to necessary mental health resources.

The funding will benefit youth aged 13 to 24, offering both virtual and in-person care options. Seven local organizations specializing in culturally responsive services will receive support to enhance their outreach and care. The city emphasizes the importance of mental health, especially in educational environments, and is preparing to roll out these services early this year. This initiative marks a significant step in addressing the pressing mental health needs of Seattle's youth population.