US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

US Federal Senate Bill SR251

Introduced
5/22/25  

Caption

A resolution supporting the designation of May 4 through May 10, 2025, as "Children's Mental Health Awareness Week".

Summary

S. Res. 251 is a Senate resolution supporting the designation of May 4 through May 10, 2025, as “Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week.” The resolution states that many youth experience mental health challenges that are undiagnosed or untreated, and it emphasizes that childhood and adolescence can be especially vulnerable periods for anxiety, depression, bullying, self-harm, and suicide risk. It frames youth mental health as a public health concern and encourages greater awareness, early identification, treatment, intervention, and prevention. The resolution also highlights factors it associates with children’s mental well-being, including outdoor recreation, healthy diet, regular peer socialization, and adequate sleep. It calls for youth mental health to be treated as a national priority and urges continued promotion of mental health efforts in schools and communities. It further encourages families, communities, and organizations to participate in awareness activities that reduce stigma and improve access to services and resources.

Impact

As a simple resolution, S. Res. 251 does not change federal or state law, create new programs, or appropriate funds. Its legal effect is symbolic: it formally expresses the Senate’s support for a designated awareness week and reinforces existing public-health messaging around children’s mental health, suicide prevention, and access to care. The resolution may be used by schools, advocacy groups, and public agencies as a basis for outreach and awareness efforts, but it does not impose binding obligations on states, local governments, or private parties.

Sentiment

The available record shows broad, noncontroversial support for the resolution. It was agreed to by unanimous consent without amendment, indicating that senators present did not object to the measure. The tone of the text is strongly supportive of youth mental health awareness, prevention, and access to care, and the resolution presents the issue as an urgent public-health concern deserving of attention across schools, communities, and government levels.

Contention

No notable opposition or recorded controversy appears in the bill history provided. Because the measure is a commemorative resolution rather than a regulatory bill, there were no committee disputes, floor votes, or amendments reflected in the available materials. The only substantive policy emphasis in the text is on promoting awareness, reducing stigma, and expanding access to mental health services for children and adolescents.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US SR743

A resolution supporting the designation of May 3 through May 9, 2026, as "Children's Mental Health Awareness Week".

US SR249

A resolution expressing support for the designation of May 2025 as "Mental Health Awareness Month".

US SR378

A resolution supporting the designation of the week of September 8 through September 12, 2025, as "Malnutrition Awareness Week".

US HR441

Expressing support for the designation of May 2025 as "Mental Health Awareness Month".

US HR683

Supporting the designation of the week of September 8 through September 12, 2025, as "Malnutrition Awareness Week".

US HR1329

Expressing support for the designation of May 2026 as "Mental Health Awareness Month".

US HR396

Expressing support for the designation of the week of May 4, 2025, through May 10, 2025, as "Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week".

US SR208

A resolution supporting the designation of May 10, 2025, as "National Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Mental Health Day".

US SR411

A resolution supporting the designation of the week of September 22 through September 26, 2025, as "National Hazing Awareness Week".

US SR417

A resolution supporting the designation of the week of September 14 through September 20, 2025, as "Telehealth Awareness Week".

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.