The Peer to Peer Mental Health Support Act directs the federal government to launch a pilot program that funds states, territories, and tribal organizations to implement evidence-based mental health peer support programs in secondary schools. Under the program, student peers receive training to help identify mental health and substance abuse challenges in their classmates and connect them with professional help, with all activities overseen by school-based mental health professionals. Eligible organizations can use funding to train students and staff, develop early identification and recovery support systems, and promote resilience among youth. The bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to evaluate the program's effectiveness by measuring participation rates, mental health outcomes, and whether it successfully connects students to professional mental health services, then report findings to Congress. The pilot program is set to expire on September 30, 2029, though the legislation does not specify a funding amount or initial appropriation.
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