Each year, National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day seeks to raise awareness about the importance of children’s mental health and show that positive mental health is essential to a child’s healthy development. As a premier advocate for children and families, TN Voices plays an instrumental role in fostering understanding and providing crucial mental health resources to families throughout the state of Tennessee and beyond through their comprehensive network of support services, training programs, and online outreach. TN Voices has become a trusted source of referral, support, and advocacy for countless families and the systems that serve them. Here’s some background on the critical importance of this national event and some of the resources available to parents, families, and caregivers in promoting the mental health of children and teens.
What Is National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day?
National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day was established to spotlight the importance of children’s mental health as integral to their overall well-being. Celebrated with events and activities across the United States, the day aims to promote awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage community support to assist young people in managing mental health challenges. Over the years, this observance has catalyzed significant discussions about mental health in young people and spurred enhancements in services and support for children and their families.
The State of Kids’ and Young Adults’ Mental Health
The mental health of children and teenagers is a critical issue that demands urgent attention. With nearly a third of U.S. teens experiencing an anxiety disorder during their lifetime and half of all lifetime mental illnesses developing by age 14, it’s clear that the early years are a pivotal time for mental health. Furthermore, 1 in 6 children aged 5–16 are likely to have a mental health problem. These sobering statistics underscore the pressing need to prioritize kids’ mental well-being and provide them with the support and resources they require. Addressing mental health challenges early on can have a profound impact, setting children up for healthier, more fulfilling lives. Investing in comprehensive mental health services and education can empower the next generation to thrive.
Photo Credit: Emma Bauso | Pexels
A Network of Support
Tennessee-based organization TN Voices has become a significant advocate for children’s mental health and educational needs. The organization’s mission is multifaceted: It provides direct support to families and also influences policies related to child mental health. The nonprofit organization’s impactful work has markedly improved access to and the quality of mental health services for children, reaching an ever-broadening expanse of families in need through its initiatives.
Programs and Support Services
TN Voices offers a comprehensive range of services and programs designed to promote mental well-being and foster a supportive mental health environment:
- The Family Connection Program
The Family Connection Program offers in-home family support from a certified Family Support Specialist (FSP). The FSP provides weekly face-to-face support and advocacy in the home, models how to build collaborative relationships with providers, and assists in navigating systems. The FSP also facilitates care coordination, which connects families with necessary services and shapes the development of the Child and Family Team.
- Community-Based Workshops and Training Sessions
Aimed at educating parents and caregivers, these workshops enhance the community’s capacity to support children’s mental health.
- Tennessee Healthy Transitions Initiative
This initiative partners with young adults and other agencies to provide formal and informal peer support, supported education and employment, support groups, care coordination, and the Statewide Young Adult Leadership Council. It strives to empower young adults to use their voices to create change and decrease stigma within their communities.
- Counseling Services
TN Voices offers individual and family counseling and therapy services for kids, teens, adults, and caregivers. Therapy can be beneficial for anyone struggling with emotional difficulties, mental health concerns, academic challenges for students, or even just life challenges.
Participating in programs like TN Voices can provide kids and their families with the tools and support needed to manage their mental health and well-being.
TN Voices Online Resources
Although TN Voices is an integral constituent of the statewide Tennessee community that provides in-person services to local community members, its mission and voice are relevant nationwide and aim to reach as many people as possible. The organization’s rich suite of online resources is thus freely available to anyone, significantly extending its impact. These resources include:
If you suspect or have confirmed that your child or teen is experiencing mental health struggles, TN Voices provides a wealth of fact sheets on different conditions that you can learn about, including symptoms, how to get a diagnosis, and treatment options.
TN Voices publishes a series of articles on various topics, all meant to inform and educate individuals of all ages and backgrounds who are experiencing challenges and their loved ones who support them.
The Can+Did podcast features stories of people who have overcome mental health challenges, as well as those who have helped people overcome mental health challenges.
TN Voices offers an online library stocked with free audio and e-books for children, teens, parents, and professionals. The topics are focused on social-emotional learning, self-care, managing children’s behavioral concerns, and general mental health topics.
National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day is more than just an annual observance; it’s a crucial part of the ongoing conversation about children’s welfare in our society. TN Voices stands at the forefront of this dialogue, advocating for necessary changes and providing essential services. By supporting TN Voices, whether locally in Tennessee or from across the nation, individuals can play a part in fostering a healthier, more supportive environment for all children.
