Addressing Children's Mental Health

In recent years, the spotlight on mental health has expanded to encompass the well-being of people across all age groups. Despite the mental health of adults claiming most of the attention, the mental well-being of children is no less significant, as it is the foundation for their future health and success. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been at the forefront of understanding and addressing children's mental health, shedding light on its prevalence, its impact, and strategies for its support.?

According to the CDC, mental health disorders among children are increasingly recognized as a significant public health concern. Data from the National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH) shows that about one in six U.S. children aged two to eight years (17.4%) had a diagnosed mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder. This statistic underscores the prevalence of mental health challenges among children and emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive support systems.?

Source: CDC- Data and Statistics on Children’s Mental Health

A multitude of factors—from genetic predispositions to environmental stressors—can influence the mental health of children. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), such as exposure to violence, abuse, or household dysfunction, can significantly impact mental well-being. Additionally, socioeconomic disparities, lack of access to healthcare, and societal stigma surrounding mental health can further exacerbate these challenges.?

Untreated mental health disorders can impede children's development and functioning across various domains. Academic performance, social relationships, and emotional regulation are often affected, leading to long-term consequences such as decreased educational attainment and increased risk of substance abuse. Furthermore, untreated mental health conditions in childhood can persist into adulthood, highlighting the importance of early intervention.

Efforts to support children's mental health require a multifaceted approach that involves collaboration among families, communities, healthcare providers, and policymakers. Additionally, promoting positive parenting practices, fostering supportive school environments, and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health are crucial components of comprehensive strategies.

At Healthfirst we take a proactive approach to identifying children who can benefit from the support of a behavioral health care manager, and we outreach these members monthly to offer our assistance before the member is in crisis. Healthfirst also has a Transition of Care process to have behavioral health care managers follow up with members after hospitalizations to ensure the members are connected to appropriate care and can follow their discharge plan as scheduled. Behavioral health care managers will help identify and overcome any obstacles that might prevent the member from attending their aftercare appointments.?

The role of a behavioral health care manager at Healthfirst includes:

• Co-managing cases with both a behavioral health care manager and a physical health care manager, to support holistic work that address all needs using an integrated approach.
• Ongoing communication with community supports and Home and Community Based Service providers, to ensure that member’s services are coordinated appropriately.
• Psychoeducation and assistance to parents to increase understanding and insight into the mental health challenges their children face.
• Ensuring that all members of the child’s treatment team—for example, pediatricians, psychiatrists, psychologists/therapists, community care managers, and Healthfirst care managers—are involved in collaborative efforts to promote the member’s success and recovery.
• Providing support to parents/caregivers via telephonic care management regarding treatment adherence and medication compliance.

Beyond being licensed social workers or mental health counselors, the care managers bring a level of familiarity to members because they live in the communities they serve and understand what is happening in the neighborhood.

Children's mental health is a critical component of overall well-being and requires concerted efforts to address effectively. Through early intervention, promoting resilience, and fostering supportive environments, we can cultivate a culture where every child has the opportunity to thrive mentally, emotionally, and socially.?