ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines how important voice is to achieving mental health supports for students. Whether it be individual voice or the collective voice of many advocates, our stories and solutions must be heard. Policy making that includes educators, politicians, families, and stakeholders can be a powerful force and go far to achieving additional mental health supports to schools and students. Grassroots advocacy, coalition building, influencers, mentors, and effective communication all play a critical role. Advocates often wear many hats and depending on the circumstances, a different hat may carry more weight. Various roles in the policy making process are examined as well as how readers can create an advocacy plan and amplify their voice. Their voice may have the most impact through the role of an educator, parent, community member, and if applicable, as a school-based mental health provider.
