Children's Mental Health Resources

children
October 26, 2021
We have noticed that there continues to be an increase of mental health related issues in our communities, with a growing emphasis on children. Factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, remote learning, and social media have all affected our children and their mental well-being. As a parent, it can be an overwhelming and emotional task to ensure your child gets the help they need. 
Below I have highlighted a couple resources, including an upcoming mental health forum, for parents with children who are struggling:
 
Immediate Assistance: 
  • Mobile Crisis Service 2-1-1: If your child is actively harming themselves, having suicidal thoughts, or planning to hurt others, call 911, or 2-1-1 and press option 1 for the Mobile Crisis Service. This is a 24 hour, 7 day a week free service to have your child immediately evaluated by a mental health professional. NOTE: If calling by cell phone, 2-1-1 can also be reached toll-free at: 800-203-1234 
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for English, 1-888-628- 9454 for Spanish, or Lifeline Crisis Chat.
  • Crisis Text Line - Text “HOME” to 741-741, or click here for more info.

NAMI Education Courses: The National Alliance on Mental Illness offers online education programs for parents and caregivers to learn more about supporting youth who are experiencing mental health symptoms. The NAMI Basics OnDemand is a free, six-session that can be completed on-demand, at your pace.

Children’s Mental Health Forum: 
The Children’s Committee will host a roundtable discussion designed for families in crisis this Wednesday, October 27th at 11am. 
This forum will provide practical advice for parents of children who are depressed, anxious, suicidal, or engaging in self-harm. The discussion will highlight how to locate counselors for your child, develop family plans, and use school resources. It will also cover alternatives to the Emergency Room and specialty LGBTQ+ outreach for kids.
 
The forum will be held in person at the Legislative Office Building in Hearing Room 1D. If you cannot attend in person, you can watch on CT-N, or the Children Committee’s YouTube Channel.