Overview

"The solution of adult problems tomorrow depends upon the way we raise our children today. There is no greater insight into the future than recognizing when we save our children, we save ourselves" (Burns, 1994, vii). Children are our community's most valuable resource and their physical and mental health must receive our full attention and concerted efforts to promote their successful development.

"The solution of adult problems tomorrow depends upon the way we raise our children today. There is no greater insight into the future than recognizing when we save our children, we save ourselves."

- Margaret Mead (Burns, 1994)

This assessment provides an overview of children's mental health, recognizing that as a community it is critical to ensure our children have every opportunity to adequately develop their emotional and social strength and resiliency. Children's mental health is determined by a continuous interaction between genetics, prenatal health, physiological development, family member's health, environmental safety, economic, educational and social conditions, and a cumulative experience of the child's achievement. Disruption in any area can result in developmental tension, prolonged and/or severe stress creating a situation in which the child is at risk for a broad range of problems. In general, mental health prevention and treatment activities are about developing resiliency or the ability to withstand and rebound from individual, family, school or social traumas. Mental health is critical at every stage of a child's life, from infancy through young adulthood. Many youngsters who are treated early and appropriately for brain disorders recover to lead normal lives.

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Description of Children's Mental Health Home Page
Children's Mental Health Home Page