Senate enacts Carson bill to add mental health education to Maine school curriculums

AUGUSTA — The Senate passed legislation by Sen. Brownie Carson, D-Harpswell, that would ensure health education in Maine schools includes lessons about mental health. LD 1024, “An Act To Include Mental Health Education in Maine Schools,” received a public hearing Monday before the Legislature’s Education and Cultural Affairs Committee.

“Teaching our kids how to talk about mental health — and that it’s OK to talk about mental health — will help them be more mindful and proactive about their own overall wellbeing,” said Sen. Carson. “I’m glad my colleagues in the Senate have prioritized the health of our young people by passing this bill.”

LD 1024 would require health education curriculums in elementary, middle, junior high and high schools to include lessons in mental health and the relationship between physical and mental health.

Brunswick School Department Superintendent Paul Perzanoski testified in support of the bill at a public hearing, citing the experience he had trying to help his son through a depressive episode, and the surprising lack of help he received from his fellow educators and colleagues.

“Mental health issues are as common as most physical health issues, but can seem to be viewed in society as something any individual can control,” Perzanoski said. “We need to remove the stigma of shame and instill a safe environment for knowledge to take its place.”

LD 1024 now goes to Gov. Jane Mills’ desk. She has 10 days to either veto the bill, sign it, or allow it to become law without her signature.