Written by: Kathy Russeth, MD

Advocacy isn’t limited to large-scale efforts; it often begins with recognizing a gap and taking a step to address it.

At the WPA annual conference last year, I was invited to speak on a topic related to advocacy. Having recently read Sexual Citizens: A Landmark Study of Sex, Power, and Assault on Campus by Jennifer Hirsch and Shamus Khan, I was inspired to address a pressing issue: the complexities of sexual relationships. The book challenges traditional narratives about consent and assault, reframing how we think about young people’s sexual relationships and the systemic factors contributing to assault on college campuses. Recognizing the vital role psychiatrists and mental health professionals play in pushing for cultural shifts in schools, universities, and communities to prevent sexual violence, I chose to focus my talk on this topic.

In exploring the issue further, I recognized—like many others—that education, particularly early and school-based education, is a pivotal intervention. Education is the cornerstone for addressing issues such as sexual violence and public health disparities. It shapes young people’s understanding of consent, boundaries, and sexual citizenship, equipping them long before they encounter situations where these concepts are critical.

Many prominent medical and public health organizations, including the American Medical Association (AMA), the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (ACOG), the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), the Wisconsin Medical Society (WMS), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), health education organizations, and the CDC, all agree on the necessity of comprehensive, inclusive sexual health education.

At the time of my presentation, the American Psychiatric Association (APA)—a key organization influencing mental health care—had not yet released a formal position on this critical issue. Recognizing an opportunity to contribute to this evolving conversation, I reached out to WPA assembly representatives Dr. Laurel Bessey and Dr. Justin Schoen, who connected me with the APA’s Council on Children, Adolescents, and their Families. The Council acted quickly, forming a workgroup to explore the topic, and a formal position statement was developed and approved by the APA assembly in November.

Having policy in place with our professional organizations is one important way to ensure they represent psychiatrists and support what we know to be best for our patients. Even when there is no immediate action, having a formal position enables organizations like the APA to advocate effectively when relevant legislation, public health initiatives, or practice guidelines arise. Policies provide a foundation for progress and sustained advocacy.

The APA may have already been considering this issue, but local engagement helped amplify momentum and drive swift, impactful action. This experience underscores the value of connecting local and national organizations to address shared priorities and drive systemic change.

Another exciting outcome of this talk was a request to organize a full conference on the topic of Sexual Well-being and the Practicing Psychiatrist, now scheduled for March 13-15, 2025, at the Edgewater in Madison, WI. Register Here. This conference addresses a vital but often overlooked area of mental health: the intersection of sexual health and psychiatric care. It is an opportunity for professionals to gain practical tools and engage in meaningful dialogue about integrating sexual well-being into clinical practice. The enthusiasm among psychiatrists and other mental health professionals for addressing this topic has been extraordinary.

This experience reinforced for me how individual efforts, combined with collaboration, can lead to meaningful change. I encourage you to reflect on areas where your expertise and advocacy can address gaps or strengthen existing initiatives. I also invite you to join us at this exciting conference to learn, network, and contribute to advancing sexual health as a critical component of mental health care.