Many parents understand the importance of healthy eating habits and staying active for their child’s physical health. Now, with rates of mental health issues in children on the rise, more and more parents are realizing the value of supporting and nurturing their child’s mental health as part of their overall health and wellness.
And while kids’ mental health may be misunderstood as only a concern for children diagnosed with or seemingly at risk for a mental health disorder, one psychologist at Children’s Health℠ encourages a different perspective.
Get advice on how to support your child’s mental health.
What is mental health?
Mental health is our emotional, psychological and social well-being, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Our mental health can affect how we think, feel and behave and influence daily activities such as relationships, academic performance and physical health.
How many children have a mental health disorder?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that up to 1 in 5 children in the U.S. experience a mental, behavioral or developmental health disorders. The most common disorders among children include:
- Anxiety
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Behavioral disorders such as oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder
- Depression
Learn more about how can parents affect and improve their children’s mental health.
