HI SCR44

Urges the Department of Education, Department of Health, and Office of Wellness and Resilience to develop and implement a statewide peer counselor program for high school students to address youth loneliness and social disconnection.

Student peer counselors would receive standardized training in active listening, ethical boundaries, trauma-informed practices, cultural responsiveness, and referral pathways to licensed mental health professionals.

The program would prioritize face-to-face peer relationships, trust building exercises, and culturally responsive approaches, with particular attention to Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander youth who have shown worsening mental health indicators.

The Hawaii State Youth Commission is urged to participate in the program's development, implementation, and evaluation, including gathering student input statewide and advising on effectiveness and equity.

The resolution cites research showing students are more likely to seek help from trusted peers than adults, and that peer-support models reduce stigma, strengthen belonging, and improve school climate.