Every year, National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day is observed on May 7, raising awareness about the importance of children’s mental health and how it is directly connected to a child’s healthy development. For one local non-profit, however, children’s mental health is the focus 365 days of the year.
Based in Roseville, Wellness Together partners with schools throughout the state to increase access to mental health services for K-12 students and families through turn-key evidence-based interventions on school campuses.
Mental health issues are the leading cause of hospitalization for children under 18 in California, according to the state Department of Health Care Access and Information. A recent study by the CDC also found that youth depression and anxiety rates have increased over time, along with growing concerns about substance abuse and suicide. Nearly 3 in 5 U.S. teen girls felt persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness and 30% seriously considered attempting suicide.
However, it’s not just teenagers that are facing mental health concerns. At least 8% to 10% of children younger than 5 years experience significant and impairing mental health problems (source: American Academy of Pediatrics). And for children and teens from vulnerable populations – including persons of color, LGBTQ+, and low-income communities – the statistics are even more significant.
According to Wellness Together, at least four students in each classroom are struggling with mental health challenges. By bringing mental health services directly to school campuses, the organization is helping to create a safer and more supportive environment for students – which can often lead to better academic progress and stronger social relationships with others.
Programs include individual counseling, group counseling, crisis intervention, family engagement, and social-emotional learning classroom presentations. With services designed in collaboration with mental health specialists and school support staff, the organization provides unique programming to eliminate various obstacles that might otherwise prevent students and families from getting help – including cultural differences and stigma, and socio-economic status. There are also no insurance requirements, increasing access to services that might not be available through traditional healthcare systems.
Currently, the organization supports 162,000 K-12 students and has expanded to reach 20,300 college students as well as 50,000 educators. Participating students have reported increased strengths in relating to others, and accepting affection from and expressing feelings toward others, while also improving their outlook on their own competence and accomplishments.
For more information, or to make a donation to help fund Wellness Together’s programs and administrative costs, visit WellnessTogether.org.
Republic FC fans can also learn more about the organization at Saturday’s match – be sure to stop by Wellness Together’s table in the Fan Zone to say hello!
