Trends in Mental Health State Legislation 2023-2024

Health, Safety, and Well-being Policy and Advocacy
February 27, 2024 Diana Ali Alexa Wesley Chamberlain Jennifer E. Henkle

Navigating services related to mental health has become a common part of the college experience for students. The 2022-2023 Healthy Minds Study indicated that out of nearly 70,000 student respondents, 41% indicated some level of depression, while 14% experienced suicidal ideation over the last year. Addressing mental health concerns is recognized as a critical component of student well-being and success and an increasing priority for state legislatures. 

The 2023 state legislative landscape offers insights into state-level strategies for how institutions and professionals might work toward proactive solutions to address the growing crisis.