Why Comprehensive Health Education Is More Critical Than Ever
Comprehensive health education is life saving.
Many of you might think you had comprehensive health education, but I wonder if you did. As of November 2024, only 26 states require health education to be medically accurate, while 42 states (plus DC) mandate abstinence-focused programs.
Misinformation isn’t education.
I attended Catholic school and only had abstinence-based education. I learned that STIs were “bad” and to be avoided at all costs. I learned that marriage was between a man and a woman and that 🌶️ time should only happen within that structure for procreation. Pleasure was never discussed.
I’ve often reflected back on how having comprehensive health education would’ve supported me differently in my adolescence and young adulthood—which is one of several reasons why I’m such a strong advocate for comprehensive health education.
With the news this week, I feel like it’s only a matter of time before these numbers decrease. Which is why this profession and any profession that touches on health and relationship education is so important—especially now.
With censorship increasing, and the likely reality of what’s to come, please make sure you’re connected to your favorite educator, therapist, and other professionals 🫶🏻