Mental services for children and adolescents

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – A 2022 report finds a growing child and adolescent mental health crisis in the United States.

Annie E. Foundation Casey CHILDREN COUNT^® Data book found that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to record increases in trauma, anxiety and depression among youth across the country.

InFocus: September is National Recovery Month

Besides, The US Surgeon General issued a warning in 2021 about the public health crisis for the mental health of children, adolescents and young people. The report also cited the COVID-19 pandemic as a direct cause of the increase, as children and families face uncertainty and additional stress.

MSPCC states that an estimated 9.5% to 14.2% of children between birth and 5 years of age experience an emotional or behavioral disorder, and studies have shown that severe symptoms of mental health problems can be seen in infants and young children.

This week on 22 News Infocus we will talk about the mental and behavioral health of children and youth in our region, as well as services and programs to support children and families.

This week’s guests are representatives of the following organizations:

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts also offers mental health resources:

Massachusetts Behavioral Health Hotline– call or text 833-773-2445
Massachusetts Department of Public Health for Children, Youth, and Families

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