The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is joining together to celebrate National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day tomorrow (May 3rd).
One in five children and adolescents in the United States have diagnosable mental health condition that requires monitoring or intervention and interferes with their daily functioning. Often a parent first talks to their child's pediatrician about their concerns before a mental health evaluation or other treatment is sought out. Just as many adults go to their primary care physician when they have symptoms of depression or anxiety, a parent often doesn't know where to turn to about the mental health of their child.
The AAP is recognizing that pediatricians are treating more children for behavioral disorders and is trying to bring awareness to what we can all do to help children who have suffered a trauma in their lives. The misconception by many is that children are resilient and are not as affected as we think they are. Many children are exposed to traumas that do have an effect on their mental health and emotional well-being.
This year, the national theme will focus on building resilience in young children dealing with trauma. Trauma can include disasters, violence, and family separation, as well as many other experiences. Coping skills are needed so that children can learn how to deal with stress that affects them.
May is Mental Health Awareness month and the focus is on not only recognizing symptoms of mental illnesses but also encouraging people to get treatment. We can all help to end the stigma of mental illness by educating ourselves and others. Mental illnesses are treatable and they do happen to children. If you would like more information about mental health topics that affect children, adolescents and teenagers, check out the following links. If you have concerns about the mental health of your child or someone that you know, talk to someone about it.
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