>The Need for Mental Health Care in Children and Adolescents
Mental health disorders among children and adolescents have seen a significant increase in recent years, with alarming consequences. Youth suicide has become the second leading cause of death for individuals aged 10-34, and emergency room visits for self-inflicted injuries among adolescents are on the rise. These statistics highlight the urgent need for mental health care in this vulnerable population.
Untreated mental health disorders have a devastating impact on individuals, families, and society as a whole. The cost of mental disorders in youth is estimated to be a staggering $247 billion annually. Despite the prevalence and consequences of these disorders, many children and adolescents do not receive the necessary treatment from mental health care providers.