On February 22, 2026, New York State Governor announced a groundbreaking new education law that will require all schools in the state to include mental health education in their curriculum. This new law comes as part of a larger effort to prioritize the mental health and well-being of students in New York.The new legislation mandates that students in all grades, from kindergarten to 12th grade, receive comprehensive mental health education as part of their curriculum. This includes learning about topics such as stress management, emotional regulation, coping skills, and how to recognize when they or someone they know may need help.Governor praised the new law as a crucial step towards destigmatizing mental health issues and promoting overall wellness among students. "By integrating mental health education into our schools, we are taking a proactive approach to addressing the mental health needs of our youth and providing them with the tools they need to thrive," he said.In addition to the new mental health education mandate, the law also includes provisions for increased access to mental health resources and support services in schools. This includes funding for more school counselors, training for teachers and staff on mental health awareness, and partnerships with mental health organizations to provide additional support for students in need.The implementation of this new law is set to begin in the upcoming school year, with schools required to have a plan in place for integrating mental health education into their curriculum by the start of the next academic year. Governor expressed confidence that this new law will have a positive impact on the mental health outcomes of students across the state.Overall, the introduction of this new education law in New York marks a significant step forward in prioritizing the mental health and well-being of students in the state. By providing comprehensive mental health education and support services in schools, New York is taking a proactive approach to promoting the overall wellness of its youth.