Advocating for Social Health Education: We Need It Now More Than Ever

Social Health education is vital because students learn how to regulate their emotions, develop healthy relationships, and gain effective communication styles; therefore, knowing how to advocate for it is equally important. This article outlines simple steps to help any family and consumer sciences (FCS) professional advocate for their field of study. The steps that led to the sponsorship of a legislative bill that requires Social Health education for all Tennessee middle schools are described. Although the the bill did not pass second rounds, the attention that Social Health gained through the advocating process is noteworthy. The process for advocating for Social Health is presented in easy-to-replicate steps that include recognizing the need, making the case, implementing the content, bringing awareness, approaching legislators, and rallying community support.