Health Care
In 2016, New Hampshire recognized a serious issue affecting children’s mental health. Many kids with tough backgrounds or emotional challenges weren’t getting the help they needed. Systems like education and healthcare were not working together. Families struggled to navigate these separate services alone.
To address this, the state created a collaborative model called the Multi-Tiered System of Support for Behavioral Health and Wellness (MTSS-B). This approach ensures that schools and mental health providers work together. They aim to support children in the places where they spend most of their time—at school and in their communities.
The MTSS-B framework came about through years of teamwork among various groups, including state agencies, schools, and mental health advocates. It received bipartisan support and was passed without opposition. Both the Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services backed this initiative, joined by hospitals, community centers, and educators.
However, as we look to the upcoming 2026 legislative session, there’s a proposed bill to repeal MTSS-B. This worries many advocates. Since its inception, MTSS-B has helped identify children in need early on and connect them to resources. Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs) play a crucial role, providing services that schools alone cannot offer.
Jodie Lubarsky, vice president of youth and family services at Seacoast Mental Health Center, emphasized the program’s benefits: “Schools have seen great improvements from MTSS-B. We support educators in understanding student needs, making it easier to connect kids to the right services.” This collaborative model has allowed educators to focus on teaching, creating a positive learning environment.
Research shows that early intervention can significantly change a child’s development. Timely support helps kids build resilience and cope with challenges. Without this approach, many face long waits for help, leading to more serious issues later on.
In 2016, the bill establishing MTSS-B highlighted a crucial finding: mental health issues are the costliest health conditions for children. If we remove this collaborative framework, we risk much higher future costs, such as increased hospital visits and disruptive educational experiences.
As children’s mental health needs continue to grow, it’s essential to maintain, not dismantle, successful support systems. A 2021 survey from the National Institute of Mental Health indicated a steep rise in children experiencing anxiety and depression, showing that we cannot ignore the need for coordinated care.
The Legislature made a smart choice in introducing MTSS-B, and now it’s time to reinforce this vital support rather than weaken it. Protecting our kids’ mental health should be a shared priority.
Dr. Cynthia Whitaker, president and CEO of Greater Nashua Mental Health Center, advocates for the well-being of children and families in New Hampshire.
