Guest Post by Manar Hussein, Health Care Access Intern
Recently, Nebraska’s Attorney General filed a lawsuit against TikTok, citing mental health concerns. While social media’s impact on youth is a valid concern, this action fails to address the significant mental health access issues across our state, which disproportionately impact youth of color.
True progress in addressing our youth mental health crisis requires a focus on systemic issues and equity. Data demonstrates the need for targeted, meaningful solutions to support youth mental health equitably. The data on children’s health in Nebraska shows the need for solutions: 47.6% of children do not have a medical home, and 78,687 children face anxiety, ADHD/ADD, depression, or Autism Spectrum adversities. Additionally, data shows that there are significant racial disparities in accessing health care providers in Nebraska.
(Nebraska Minorities Disparity Facts Chart Book 2021, Office of Health Disparities & Health Equity, Division of Public Health, Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services www.dhhs.ne.gov/healthdisparities)
The Trevor Project demonstrates disproportionate effects and disparities in LGBTQ+ youth and youth of color in Nebraska. For example, 73% of LGBTQ youth experience high rates of anxiety and depression. Additionally, 50% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered suicide in the past year.
Systemic racism, socioeconomic factors, and a lack of culturally competent care all contribute to these disparities. In many of Nebraska’s diverse communities, there is a severe shortage of mental health professionals and appropriate interventions.
We urge our state leaders to take meaningful action by:
- Increasing funding and accessibility for equitable mental health services across Nebraska.
- Recruiting and expanding provider networks for youth mental health services.
- Implementing cultural competency training for all mental health professionals in the state.
- Expanding school-based mental health services with a focus on equity.
Some Nebraska communities are already making strides in mental health policy work through the Journey to Success Program. Journey to Success is a policy advocacy campaign that seeks to improve opportunities and outcomes for all youth and young adults who experience foster care by promoting their healing, family connections, and economic security. Through youth-driven advocacy, these efforts show the power of community-based solutions.
Nebraskans must address racial disparities in youth mental health for our state’s future. Nebraska Appleseed is fighting for an equitable system where all young people have access to mental health support, regardless of race or background. We need your voice and stories to create real change. Join us in ensuring a just and healthy future for all of Nebraska’s youth.
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