SYAC Survey Identifies Demand for Mental Health Care

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Our Statewide Youth Action Council (SYAC) used a Participatory Action Research model to examine barriers to mental health services for young people. Working diligently since February of this year using curriculum from the Oregon Health Authority, the SYAC completed surveys and key informant interviews to highlight the need for mental health services and access in the metro area. The project culminated in a visit to Salem to discuss policy with legislators while advocating for school-based health centers. 


The SYAC visited Salem on June 12, 2015 and spoke with seven legislators to advocate for House Bill 5005 and Senate Bill 336, both of which supported SBHC expansion. SYAC members cited their research findings as evidence that school-based health care expansion is essential for young people in Oregon. Here is a photo of SYAC members meeting with Senator Richard Devlin, Senate Co-Chair of the Joint Ways and Means Committee.