California Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order Wednesday focused on support for men and boys statewide. This new directive calls on state agencies to improve mental health outcomes and reduce rising suicide rates among young men. The order specifically tasks the Health and Human Services Agency with finding effective strategies to reach at-risk boys and men. Moreover, officials must recommend ways to increase access to education, employment, and counseling opportunities across the state.
Furthermore, Newsom emphasized the urgency of the crisis. “Too many young men suffer alone, cut off from family and community,” he said. In addition, he added that this action aims to give young men purpose, dignity, and a renewed sense of connection. This issue has gained national attention, especially after Democrats lost many young male voters in the last election. In fact, more than half of men under 30 supported Donald Trump, reversing a previous trend toward Democrats.
Newsom, seen as a potential 2028 presidential candidate, recently used his podcast to spotlight these concerns. On Wednesday, he released a podcast episode featuring Richard Reeves, president of the American Institute for Boys and Men. The two discussed urgent needs affecting young males and possible solutions for long-term well-being.
Newsom said the issue goes far beyond politics. “What is going on with our men and boys?” he asked. He described them as increasingly disengaged, isolated, and depressed trends demanding immediate action.
The order also aims to boost male participation in teaching, counseling, and community service roles. Additionally, it requires new strategies to involve boys in state-sponsored career training and volunteer programs. Agencies must submit progress updates within two months of the executive order.
Mental health advocates responded with cautious optimism. Karen Vicari of Mental Health America of California praised the focus but warned of ongoing resource shortages. “Our system remains underfunded and short-staffed,” she said, urging deeper investment. Pete Weldy, head of the California Alliance of Child and Family Services, called the order “urgently needed.” He criticized recent federal cuts to suicide prevention programs and praised California’s proactive stance. Federal changes include the Trump administration’s decision to eliminate a hotline supporting LGBTQ+ youth.
Data from the CDC shows the depth of the problem: men account for 80% of suicides in the U.S. In 2023, the suicide rate among males reached 22.7 deaths per 100,000 nearly four times higher than for females. Support for men and boys is no longer just a talking point. California’s new initiative signals real change. As this work unfolds, support for men and boys will likely shape future mental health and education policy nationwide.
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