Skip to main content

Mental Health

A diverse group of smiling children; boys and girls

Mental Health

Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment. Navigating mental health concerns and understanding suicide awareness can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. This resource page is designed to provide guidance, tools, and support to help you foster open conversations, recognize warning signs, and access professional help when needed.

Mental health issues in children are common; you are not alone.  Video

Mental health issues in children are common; you are not alone. 

There is help for those in crisis.

 

Advocates for Mental Health of MI Youth

Advocates for Mental Health of Michigan Youth, is a parent-led, grassroots organization working to improve mental health support for children and adolescents in Michigan. The website covers challenges in the system, advocacy efforts, parent training and resources, and media coverage. 

Visit their website for more information

Harvard Child and Adolescent Mental Health Series

In a 21-part video series, Dr. Lee (an attending psychologist at Boston Children's Hospital) shares her expertise on mental health issues facing children and teens today. She describes signs and symptoms, identifies proper screening and interventions, and highlights barriers to treatment.
Access the full list of videos

Signs & Symptoms from the American Academy of Pediatrics

Some of the signs that may indicate that your child needs additional support include: 

  • Feeling "on edge" or "wound up" most of the time
  • Worrying about things for no reason or having negative thoughts that are hard to control
  • Feeling panicky or having physical symptoms like headaches, stomach pains, rapid breathing, fast heartbeat or diarrhea
  • Avoiding activities because of fear or anxiety
  • Changes in sleep habits (trouble sleeping or being tired during the day)
  • Changes in eating habits (eating too much or too little)
  • Being quick to give up on challenging tasks
  • Struggling with schoolwork
  • Spending more time alone
  • Feeling sad or irritable
  • Feeling guilty about things
  • Talking about death or suicide
If you notice concerning signs or symptoms, talk with your child's pediatrician.

HealthyChildren.Org Resource Pages