Bill > HCR102

This concurrent resolution urges the Department of Education, in partnership with the Department of Health and the Office of Wellness and Resilience, to create a statewide program where trained high school students act as peer counselors to combat loneliness and social disconnection among their peers. The program aims to foster face-to-face connections, build trust, and use culturally sensitive methods to improve student well-being, recognizing that loneliness is a significant risk factor for mental health issues like anxiety and depression, particularly impacting Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander youth. Student peer counselors will receive training in active listening, ethical conduct, trauma-informed care, and how to refer students in distress to mental health professionals, thereby normalizing conversations about well-being and promoting early intervention. The Office of Wellness and Resilience will help coordinate efforts and ensure the program aligns with healing-centered principles, while the Hawaii State Youth Commission will advocate for youth interests and provide input on the program's effectiveness. The resolution also suggests a phased implementation, starting with pilot programs in select schools, to allow for adaptation and evaluation.

Education, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HCR&billnumber=102&year=2026