The Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics are raising awareness during Children’s Mental Health Week from May 5th through 11th. This nationally recognized campaign shines a spotlight on the importance of mental health for children, aiming to reduce stigma and encourage community support. Statistics show that one in six US youth face mental illness yearly, with many not receiving necessary care. Half of all lifetime mental illnesses start before age 14. With resources scarce, local professionals urge families to seek support if needed.
Psychiatric nurse practitioners, mental health therapists, nurses, and supportive staff are pleased to be able to offer this support to our community. For more information, call First Choice Healthcare in Kewanee at 309-852-5272; visit their website at www.henrystarkhealth.com; or like or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider the following Children & Youth Mental & Behavioral Health Facts:
- 1 in 6 US youth experience mental illness each year, and only half of them receive treatment.
- 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24.
- Among US adolescents (aged 12-17), 1 in 6 experienced a major depressive episode in the last year.
- 3 million US adolescents had serious thoughts of suicide.
- The average delay between the onset of mental illness symptoms and treatment is 11 years.
- 60% of Americans are concerned about the stigma around mental illness.