Friend, throughout this month, we highlighted how humanitarian crises around the world impact the health of children physically and emotionally. The mental toll is worsened in times of emergency, and many children suffering from mental health disorders remain undiagnosed and untreated.
In the United States, nearly 20 percent of American children aged 3–17 reported one or more mental or behavioral health disorders. Despite this prevalence, resources for mental health services are limited and stigmas surrounding mental health persist.
UNICEF USA knows how important it is to provide robust mental health services to children, their parents and caregivers, and their communities. But we must also partner with elected and government officials to take action and ensure those services are supported at the federal level.
Urge Congress to prioritize the mental
well-being of children and adolescents and pass the MINDS Act and Youth Mental Health Data Act >>
It is essential that children have adequate and proper resources to support their mental health. The MINDS Act would ensure mental health is prioritized in foreign assistance and the Youth Mental Health Data Act seeks to address the mental health needs
of children and adolescents in the U.S. through research and data. Both acts are key to increasing investments in mental health for children and adolescents.
We must demand more action from our leaders to protect the health of children and make mental health resources more accessible.
Take action today by calling on your legislators to increase mental health support for children and adolescents.
Thank you for prioritizing children’s mental health,
UNICEF USA
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