SAHM Votes: Providing Resources to Help Get out the Youth Vote

Youth participation in elections is critical and impactful around the globe. This year, as in many other countries, there is an upcoming pivotal election in the United States. As adolescent health and medicine professionals, we have a unique platform from which we can educate our communities, adolescents, young adults and families about the important health benefits of voting. SAHM encourages its members to actively discuss the importance of voting with adolescents and young adults and to offer resources to assist those who are not yet registered to vote.

Voting is a powerful tool through which adolescents and young adults can influence the policies that shape their access to essential resources and opportunities for health. Civic engagement itself has been linked to improved mental well-being among young people. Communities with higher voter turnout often enjoy better access to healthcare services, including mental health support, which is especially crucial given the rising mental health needs of young adults.

Caregivers of adolescents and young adults have an opportunity with each election to role model civic responsibility. Studies show us that parental levels of civic responsibility, both locally and globally, correspond with youth’s future levels of civic responsibility, including voting. When parents and other adults vote, it models civic participation that helps build the world that adolescents grow up in.

The outcome of the U.S. presidential election in November 2024, along with numerous other federal, state, and local elections, will likely have significant implications for the lives of young people in the United States in the coming years. Consider helping the youth you work with registering to vote and empower them to make their voices heard.