The Importance of Mental Health Awareness in Children

Mental health awareness in children is as important as it is in adults. As children require more psychosocial support than ever, parents must do what they can to learn more about mental health challenges and how these issues can affect their children.

When children are equipped with mental health awareness, they become more confident in their ability to take care of themselves when managing depression, anxiety, and other issues. Here’s what you need to know.

What is Mental Health Awareness?

Mental health awareness is the ongoing effort to educate, increase support, and reduce the stigma regarding mental conditions. It involves sharing accurate information, having open conversations, and creating spaces where people can seek support without judgment.

Advocates for mental health awareness work to improve policies by collaborating with non-government organizations (NGOs) and fundraising to ensure access to quality care.

Why is Children’s Mental Health Awareness Important?

When children understand their mental health, they can learn to manage their emotions and cope with challenges more effectively. Being aware of the complications that come with mental health issues can help prevent problems later in life and put children in a better position to reach their full potential. Here are a few other reasons why children’s mental health awareness makes an impact.

Early detection and treatment

In America, 1 in 5 children aged 3 to 17 has mental, emotional, and developmental issues [*]. Many of them, without early intervention, become high-risk individuals.

In particular, young children may have difficulty identifying and understanding their mental health issues. Early diagnosis can be incredibly validating to a child, as it makes their symptoms tangible and easier for parents to find treatment.

Early intervention can also improve a child’s prognosis, especially when they undergo evidence-based treatments. Furthermore, it minimizes the risks of secondary complications, such as substance abuse and self-harm.  

Prevent long-term mental health issues

Without early intervention, symptoms related to your child’s mental health can worsen. Addressing their concerns promptly can put them in a better position to get the support and treatment they need.

Schools can help further prevent long-term mental health issues by including routine mental health screening to identify at-risk children.

Support better learning and achievement

Children with access to mental health services or undergoing mental health awareness programs feel safe and understood. They are more motivated to learn about themselves and can reduce the stress and anxiety that come with mental health challenges.

When children feel supported, they are more likely to thrive academically and socially. Good well-being enhances a child’s cognitive functioning, which leads to improved academic performance [*].

Contribute to healthier, more successful futures

Children with good mental health are prepared to learn, succeed, and build healthy relationships with others. The more they understand themselves, the better they learn to cope with stressful situations.

When children are empowered to handle everyday difficulties and rely on themselves, they become more ambitious. They practice healthy mental health habits, such as regular physical exercise, open discussions about their emotions, and seeking help when needed.

Related: 10 Tips to Support Your Children’s Mental Health

When is Children's Mental Health Awareness Day?

In the United States, National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day typically takes place on a Thursday in the first full week of May. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) pioneered the first of these events in 2005, and it has since become a staple nationwide.

On this day, people can learn more about children’s mental health through numerous events, seminars, and activities led by professionals and volunteers.

How Can You Get Involved in Children’s Mental Health Awareness?

Nurturing your child’s mental health is critical to their well-being and ability to take care of themselves. Here’s how you can get involved.

Openly discuss mental health with your children

While having conversations about mental health with your child can be tricky or awkward, it’s the first step in getting them comfortable with the topic. Use age-appropriate language with your child.

If you’re speaking with a younger child in preschool, for instance, you may need to limit the details and information. They focus more on things they can see, like someone crying or behaving strangely.

On the other hand, teenagers are much more capable of understanding complex ideas. Talking to them gives parents a good opportunity to correct any misinformation and provide actionable guidance.

Educate yourself about child mental health

There is still a great deal of stigma surrounding mental health discussions regarding children, so it’s best to remove your biases and educate yourself. Aspects of your child’s mental health that you should understand include the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for their specific needs.

There are numerous ways to learn more about mental health, such as researching at your local library, seeking help from a medical professional, attending school-hosted events, or attending seminars.

Support organizations

Many organizations in the United States are dedicated to children’s mental health. Key organizations include the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Child Mind Institute, and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP).

You can support these organizations by donating to research or specific programs that align with your interests and family’s experiences. You can also volunteer at schools or local community centers.

A more involved method of support would be to contact your local officials and advocate for policies that improve access to mental healthcare for children in your city. By working together, you can rally to increase funding for mental health services and education.

Participate in events and activities during Children's Mental Health Awareness Day

National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day hosts hundreds of different events across America. For example, the National Federation of Families distributes green ribbons and lapel pins to serve as a visual reminder of the importance of children’s mental health.

Some advocacy groups organize legislative briefings to educate policymakers on the state of children’s mental health and how they can improve policies to be more inclusive.

You’ll also find opportunities to participate through your child’s school or local community. There are dozens of mental health fairs, workshops, and family-friendly activities, such as fun runs, that support special causes.

The Bottom Line

Mental health plays a significant role in a child’s future. When parents are well-educated regarding the issues surrounding mental health, they can provide the appropriate support and guidance.

Want to discover creative and engaging ways to incorporate mental health education into your daily routine? Explore our collection of worksheets.

Sources:

1. “CHILD AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH.” Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, 2022.
2. Zhang J, Peng C, Chen C. “Mental health and academic performance of college students: Knowledge in the field of mental health, self-control, and learning in college.” Acta Psychologica, 2024.