Idaho CareLine: In Idaho, Dial 2-1-1 or 800-926-2588
Mental Health Matters
Did You Know?
Three of the most common brain disorders in children and adolescents are attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), major depression, and anxiety disorders. While it's easy for caregivers to recognize that their child has a high fever, evaluating a child's mental health is different.
Some of the warning signs that a child or adolescent might have a serious emotional disturbance include poor performance in school, loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed, sleep problems, obsession about or lack of interest in appearance or weight, or unexplained fears.
Caregivers should seek help from professionals for their child just as they would seek treatment if their child had a high fever. Without help, mental health problems can lead to alcohol or other drug abuse, school failure, family discord, violence, or even suicide.
Mental health is key to the health and vitality of our families and communities. During Mental Health Month in May, consumers, family members, and advocates are working around the country to raise awareness of mental illnesses and other mental issues. Mental illnesses are real, common and treatable.
One in four Americans will experience mental illness in their lifetime. One in five children suffer from a diagnosable mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder. One in 10 children have a serious disorder which, if left untreated, can lead to difficulties within the family, in school, and other areas of their life.
For more information or if you are concerned about your child's mental health, contact yourlocal Health and Welfare office or contact the Idaho CareLine at 2-1-1 or 1-800-926-2588, or 1-208-332-7205 (TDD).
Additional Resources
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Idaho Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health — For families and their children with emotional, behavioral, and mental disorders. A statewide, parent-run organization focused on the needs of children and youth with emotional, behavioral, or mental disorders and their families, with excellent links to other local and national sites, including the Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health.
The National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI) has become the nation's leading grassroots, self-help, and family advocacy organization solely dedicated to improving the lives of people with severe mental illnesses. The Idaho Chapter of NAMI is a non-profit education, support, and advocacy corporation, linking family support groups committed to improving the quality of life for people with a brain disorder, and their families.
Idaho and National agency and advocacy group — Contact information/resources.
American Association of Suicidology — Nonprofit organization dedicated to the understanding and prevention of suicide. This site is designed as a resource for anyone concerned about suicide, including AAS members, suicide researchers, therapists, prevention specialists, survivors of suicide, and people who are in crisis.
The Research and Training Center on Family Support and Children's Mental Health — Activities focus on improving services to families whose children have mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders through a set of related research and training programs. The site includes a National Clearinghouse with fact sheets and information for families or providers.
What Every Child Needs for Good Mental Health — National Mental Health Association regarding the importance of physical, mental, and emotional needs of children and how parents can help them develop.
Being Prepared: Know When to Seek Help for Your Child — American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry with tips for parents on when to seek help for their child.
National Network for Child Care— For child care providers on caring for children with special needs.