Sioux City Times

U.S. Representative Randy Feenstra from Hull has introduced a new piece of legislation aimed at enhancing brain health support for students in Iowa schools. The legislation, titled the Improving Brain Health in Schools Act, seeks to provide necessary resources for schools to offer better brain health care.

This initiative has received backing from both the American Psychiatric Association and Brain Health Now. In discussing the bill, Rep. Feenstra emphasized the importance of treating brain health on par with physical health, highlighting that many children face challenges such as depression and anxiety without adequate access to care and support.

"Brain health must be treated the same way as physical health," said Rep. Feenstra. "Too many people – especially our children – struggle from depression, anxiety, and other brain health challenges but lack access to safe outlets, quality care, and support systems. That needs to change to improve the overall wellbeing of our students."

The proposed act allows K-12 schools to apply for grants from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) specifically for brain health services. It also enables these schools to fund counseling centers and evidence-based programs tailored to student needs in this area.

Furthermore, both K-12 schools and higher education institutions can use these grant funds to create Brain Health Retreat Rooms. These rooms are intended as spaces where students can learn wellness strategies and connect with needed resources for managing their brain health effectively.

The full text of the legislation is available online.