SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — In a landmark move to combat rising mental health challenges among young males, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order on Wednesday focused on expanding mental health support and reducing suicide rates among boys and men.
The directive tasks the California Health and Human Services Agency with developing actionable strategies to increase mental health support access, reduce male suicide, and promote education and career pathways. It also addresses a growing crisis of loneliness, depression, and disconnection that many young men face today.
“Too many young men and boys are suffering in silence — disconnected from community, opportunity, and even their own families,” Newsom said. “This action is about turning that around. It’s about showing every young man that he matters and there’s a path for him of purpose, dignity, work, and real connection.”
A Response to Growing Mental Health Concerns
Mental health experts have raised alarms over the lack of adequate mental health support for males. According to the CDC, men made up nearly 80% of suicides in the U.S. in 2023. The suicide mortality rate among males was 22.7 per 100,000, nearly four times higher than among women.
Although California had one of the lowest suicide rates nationally (10.2 per 100,000), advocates stress that these numbers still reflect a mental health system needing deeper reform and mental health support services tailored specifically for men and boys.
Political and Cultural Implications
The executive order comes as a timely response not just to a health crisis, but a cultural and political shift. According to AP VoteCast, more than half of men under 30 supported Donald Trump in the last election — a dramatic reversal from 2020 when many favored Joe Biden. Analysts point to feelings of social and economic alienation among young males.
Governor Newsom, seen as a possible 2028 presidential candidate, has been vocal on this issue via his podcast, which often explores mental health support and male identity. In a recent episode, he interviewed Richard Reeves, president of the American Institute for Boys and Men, to discuss solutions for engaging isolated young men.
Key Components of the Executive Order on Mental Health Support
- Develop statewide mental health support outreach specifically targeting young men and boys
- Expand access to education, job training, and volunteer programs
- Encourage men to join caregiving roles such as teaching and school counseling
- Reduce social isolation through community and peer-based interventions
- Require agencies to submit updates and implementation recommendations within two months
Expert Reactions Highlight Need for Broader Investment
While the initiative has received praise, many advocates warn that mental health support infrastructure is still lacking.
Karen Vicari of Mental Health America of California called the action “important but insufficient,” citing underfunded programs and workforce shortages. Pete Weldy, CEO of the California Alliance of Child and Family Services, emphasized the urgency of this support amid federal cuts to suicide prevention programs and LGBTQ+ youth services.
“This couldn’t come at a more critical moment,” Weldy stated. “We’re proud the State is investing in mental health support for boys, young men, and families.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is men’s mental health a priority in California?
Men and boys are at much higher risk of suicide and untreated psychological issues. The state is expanding mental health support to reduce these disparities.
What are the goals of the executive order?
The order seeks to reduce male suicide, increase access to mental health support, promote mentorship, and encourage career-building pathways for young men.
How does this impact education and careers?
The state will support mentorship, teacher training, and job programs that connect youth with real-life purpose and skills.
Is this move politically motivated?
While rooted in real concern for young men’s well-being, the order also comes amid a broader conversation on re-engaging male voters, especially younger ones.
When will the executive order take effect?
State agencies are required to submit their recommendations within 60 days to begin implementation of expanded mental health support systems.
