MS SB2668

Requires public schools to include instruction in mental illness and mental health in the health education component of the Comprehensive School Health Education Program beginning with the 2024-2025 school year.

Mandates age-appropriate mental health instruction be taught at a grade level determined by the Office of Comprehensive School Health Education and in all higher grade levels within existing minimum instructional time requirements.

Mental health curriculum must include: understanding mental health problems and myths about mental illness, destigmatizing mental illness, recognizing symptoms, employing positive coping techniques for stress, and utilizing professional resources and hotline information.

Requires the State Department of Education to mandate all local school districts conduct in-service training on mental illness for licensed school employees, developed with the State Department of Mental Health and including recognition of mental illness signs and symptoms in students.

Takes effect July 1, 2024.