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Integrating mental health support into US international aid and humanitarian programs.

This law mandates US government agencies, primarily USAID, to systematically integrate mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) into all global development and humanitarian assistance programs. This means US aid funds will now be explicitly directed toward addressing trauma and mental health disorders, especially in conflict zones and among vulnerable groups like children and displaced persons. The goal is to enhance the effectiveness of aid by recognizing mental health as essential to overall health and development outcomes.
Key points
A new Mental Health Coordinator position is authorized within USAID to guide and oversee the integration of mental health support across all foreign assistance programs.
US humanitarian and development aid must now be evidence-based, culturally competent, and "trauma-informed," prioritizing populations at high risk of mental health disorders.
The law requires annual reporting to Congress for five years detailing the funding spent on mental health support and the progress made under this new policy.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_767
Sponsor: Sen. Casey, Robert P., Jr. [D-PA]
Process start date: 2023-03-09
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

MINDS Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_767.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-03-09.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • A new Mental Health Coordinator position is authorized within USAID to guide and oversee the integration of mental health support across all foreign assistance programs.
  • US humanitarian and development aid must now be evidence-based, culturally competent, and "trauma-informed," prioritizing populations at high risk of mental health disorders.
  • The law requires annual reporting to Congress for five years detailing the funding spent on mental health support and the progress made under this new policy.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Casey, Robert P., Jr. [D-PA].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-27.

CATEGORIES

Health Public Investments