Bill > HR94

This 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 in Hawaii's high schools where trained student peer counselors help address youth loneliness and social disconnection. The program aims to foster face-to-face relationships, 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, which have worsened among Hawaii's youth, particularly Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander students. The peer counselors will be trained in skills like active listening and how to connect students in distress with mental health professionals, acting as trusted points of contact within schools to normalize conversations about mental well-being and identify students needing support. The Office of Wellness and Resilience will help coordinate efforts and ensure the program is trauma-informed and healing-centered, while the Hawaii State Youth Commission will represent student interests and provide input on the program's effectiveness. The resolution also suggests a phased implementation, starting with pilot programs in selected schools, to allow for adaptation and evaluation.

Education, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HR&billnumber=94&year=2026