Based on statistics, child and teen mental health is a major problem in the United States. As a result, there’s a real need for mental health treatment for all ages. Fortunately, many organizations host events to educate and spread awareness about these issues. In fact, the National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health (FFCMH) hosts National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week (NCMHA Week).

Mental Health Statistics

According to the FFCMH, 1 in 5 children face behavioral, emotional and social challenges. Also, the National Insitute of Mental Health reports that about 49.5% of teens had a mental disorder in 2017. About 22% of these cases involved severe impairment. Similarly, the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found that about 13% of children have mental disorders.

When children and teens don’t get help with these issues, they may continue to have symptoms into adulthood. If they continue to go without treatment, they could allow the cycle to repeat with their children. This cycle affects the rest of society as well.

National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week

The purpose of NCMHA Week is to address the lack of education and awareness of mental disorders among kids. The FFCMH established this event in 2005 to occur within the already established National Mental Health Month. Because of that, it occurs every year on the first full week of May. For 2019, National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week will take place May 5-11.

This FFCMH initiative encourages nonprofits, schools, and communities to participate and hold events that teach others about mental health. The organization’s goal is to educate the public about the importance of mental health in children and teens. It believes that advocating for effective support and services will have a positive impact on their well-being.

How to Participate in NCMHA Week

For anyone who wants to participate in NCMHA Week, the FFCMH has prepared activities, videos, and worksheets. Teachers and parents can use these resources for children and teens of any age. In fact, there’s a set of resources specifically for pre-K through elementary school and middle school through high school.

Also, the FFCMH provides other online resources with mental health activities and information. Families can print out its May 2019 calendar as well. It includes suggested activities and topics to talk about during National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week. In addition, families can use the suggestions throughout the rest of National Mental Health Month.

Get Your Teen a Mental Health Checkup

Does your teen struggle with behavioral, emotional, and social challenges? Foothills at Red Oak Recovery can perform psychological testing to identify any issues. At our adolescent treatment center NC and surrounding areas need, your teen can receive the care that he needs. We provide services for a range of behavioral and mental health disorders, such as:

• Anxiety treatment
• Depression treatment
• Process addiction treatment
• Social media addiction treatment
• Disordered eating treatment
• Substance abuse treatment

Don’t ignore the possibility that your teen needs help dealing with life changes and stress. Learn more about the risks during National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week. Call 828.519.5047 for a psychological assessment and treatment.