Children's Mental Health Week: May 2-8, 2010

Growing Together: Promoting Positive Mental Health from Birth to Adulthood

Since 1996, Children’s Mental Health Week is an annual event which works to combat the stigma associated with mental illness and promote awareness around mental health issues.  Events focus on educating communities about children with mental health needs and the impact of mental illness on families.  Children’s Mental Health Week is sponsored by the Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health, a national, family-run organization dedicated to help children with mental health needs and their families achieve a better quality of life.

FACTS:
 

• 79% of children aged 6 to 17 with mental disorders do not receive appropriate care.

• Children with mental health needs are best served with early detection and treatment, which can prevent them from having more expensive and intense forms of treatment later on.

• Untreated mental illnesses may increase the risk of a child being involved in the juvenile justice system.  According to one study, 66% of boys and almost 75% of girls in juvenile detention have at least one mental disorder.

• Anxiety disorders, mood disorders and disruptive disorders are the most common mental disorders among children.

Spread the word!

Mental health is a critical component of physical health and overall well-being.  Mental health needs can be managed and treated in appropriate, family-driven ways.  Children and youth with mental health needs deserve access to family-driven supports which allow them to reside within their homes and communities.  When communities care about children and youth with mental health needs, our children and families can be successful!

How can I help?

• Wear a green ribbon and show your support for Children’s Mental Health!  Contact us at 617-542-7860 or info@ppal.net to order your ribbon(s)!

• Attend an event celebrating Children’s Mental Health in your community!  Click on the May Events Calendar to find events in your area!

Information collected from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the National Institute of Mental Health and the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law.