In a significant move to address the mental health challenges faced by boys and men, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order on July 30, 2025. The order aims to reduce suicide rates, enhance community connections, and improve access to education and career opportunities for young men. It directs the state Health and Human Services Agency to develop strategies that support young men, including increasing their participation in volunteering, education programs, and careers in teaching and counseling.
This initiative comes amid growing concerns about men's mental health and rising suicide rates. In 2023, men accounted for 80% of suicides in the U.S., with a rate of 22.7 per 100,000, significantly higher than among women. The executive order also responds to political shifts, as recent elections showed increasing male support for Republican candidates. Governor Newsom, a possible 2028 presidential contender, has highlighted these issues in his podcast, including a new episode with Richard Reeves of the American Institute for Boys and Men.
Mental health advocates have acknowledged the executive order as a positive step but emphasized the need for greater funding and workforce expansion in the behavioral health system. This initiative contrasts with recent federal cuts to suicide prevention programs, particularly those aiding LGBTQ+ youth.
The "Zero Suicide Model," which emphasizes proactive suicide prevention strategies such as patient screening, safety planning, restricting access to lethal means, and mental health treatment, has been implemented in various healthcare systems. A recent study published in JAMA Network Open demonstrates that health care systems adopting this model can significantly reduce suicide rates and attempts among patients. Between 2012 and 2019, four Kaiser Permanente sites reported reductions of up to 25% in suicides and attempts. The study highlights that approximately 165 to 170 suicide attempts were prevented annually at participating locations.
In Tennessee, a new suicide prevention initiative called "Promise to Call" has been launched to increase awareness and use of the 988 mental health crisis hotline. The campaign encourages individuals to identify a trusted contact and make a personal commitment to reach out for support in times of suicidal thoughts. Suicide remains a leading cause of death in the state, with a rate about 20% higher than the national average. In 2023, 1,279 Tennesseans died by suicide, demonstrating the ongoing severity of the mental health crisis.
These initiatives reflect a growing recognition of the importance of mental health support and proactive measures to address the crisis. While progress is being made, experts stress the need for continued efforts to promote mental well-being and reduce suicide rates across the nation.
