<h2>Report: Alaska Makes Strides in School Mental Health, More Work Needed</h2>
<p>A new report card on in-school mental health services found Alaska has made significant progress but more work is needed. Inseparable, a mental health advocacy organization, has issued guidelines for expanding services. Sen. Cathy Giessel, R-Anchorage, noted Alaska’s high rate of teen suicides, stating it’s a crisis.” Inseparable’s report showed improvements in areas such as teacher training and life skills coaching. However, the state lags in mental health staff and screenings. Polls show strong support for increased access to mental health services in schools. Caitlin Hochul of Inseparable stressed the importance of early intervention to prevent future issues.</p>
<h2>Colorado Improves School Mental Health, Funding at Risk</h2>
<p>Colorado has shown significant improvements in school mental health, but risks losing progress due to potential Medicaid cuts. Sen. Dafna Michaelson Jenet highlighted the state’s reliance on Medicaid funds. Colorado has increased mental health professionals in schools and created supportive environments, such as allowing mental health absences. Annual screenings have been instituted, although future funding is uncertain. Caitlin Hochul emphasized the benefits of early intervention for long-term success. Efforts are underway to protect effective programs, such as the I Matter initiative, to reduce suicide rates.</p>
<h2>Nebraska Bill Aims to Protect Mental Health Reimbursement Rates</h2>
<p>Nebraska lawmakers are considering a bill to ensure managed health care companies cannot lower reimbursement rates for mental health services. Annette Dubas of the Nebraska Association of Behavioral Health Organizations stressed the importance of protecting rates to maintain access to care. Lower rates could impact workforce recruitment and retention in an already challenging field. The bill aims to keep “guardrails” in place to prevent future rate reductions.</p>
<h2>Michigan Shows Progress in School Mental Health despite Budget Threats</h2>
<p>Despite budget threats, Michigan has made solid progress in staffing its school mental health system. Inseparable’s report reveals gains in the number of psychologists, counselors, and social workers. However, gaps remain in staff training and essential screenings. Polls show wide support for expanding mental health care. While progress has been made, Michigan still lacks certain key policies. Proper training is credited for the state’s success in increasing social workers in schools. Inseparable emphasizes early intervention for better outcomes in the long run.</p>
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