Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day is a national initiative that underscores the vital importance of mental health in childhood development. Initiated in 2005 by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration ( ), this day raises awareness about children’s mental health, promotes early intervention and reduces stigma associated with mental health conditions in youth. With increasing rates of anxiety, depression, and behavioral concerns among children, the need for a coordinated community response has never been greater. This observance serves as both a reflection on our youth’s challenges and a rallying point for advancing meaningful, long-term solutions.
Children’s Mental Health by the Numbers
Key statistics highlight the urgency around children’s mental health:
- 1 in 6 children aged 2–8 in the U.S. has a diagnosed mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder.
- Mental health-related emergency visits among children have risen by up to 30%, especially since the pandemic.
- Suicidal behavior in high school students increased by more than 40% during the decade leading up to 2019.
- Up to 80% of children in foster care have significant mental health challenges.
From Awareness to Acceptance
In 2022, the National Federation of Families evolved the campaign’s title from Awareness Week to Acceptance Week, emphasizing the active inclusion and support required beyond mere awareness.
But what does “acceptance” truly mean?
Acceptance moves us from simply recognizing mental health challenges to embracing the children who experience them, fully, openly, and without judgment. It means listening with compassion, allowing children to express complex emotions without fear, and advocating for inclusive classrooms and communities. Acceptance looks like a teacher patiently adjusting a learning plan, a coach checking in after practice, or a parent reassuring a child, “You’re not alone. I’m here.”
By fostering emotional safety and validation environments, we reduce stigma and create conditions for children to thrive.
Head Start for Children’s Mental Health
An exemplary model of early mental health support is the National Head Start program, founded in 1965. Head Start delivers comprehensive early childhood education, health services, nutrition and parental involvement to low-income families. Head Start focuses on mental health support by providing:
- Mental Health Consultants: Offering expert consultations to support staff and parents.
- Comprehensive Screenings: Identifying developmental and emotional needs early.
- Family Engagement: Providing resources and training to help parents nurture their children’s mental health at home.
Since its inception, Head Start has impacted over 39 million children and families, exemplifying effective early intervention. Despite funding and policy challenges, the program continues to advocate for sustained support, emphasizing the necessity of comprehensive community services.
How to Support Children’s Mental Health: 5 Ways to Take Action
You don’t have to be a mental health professional to make a difference. Small acts of support and awareness go a long way in building a culture of care. Here are meaningful ways to get involved on Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day:
- Wear Green: Wearing a green ribbon is more than a gesture — it’s a sign of solidarity. Show support and spark conversations. Annual themes such as “Accept. Advocate. Act.” guide community activities and highlight critical issues.
- Educate and Advocate: Learn the signs and symptoms of childhood mental health conditions. Speak out to support school-based counseling, regular screenings and mental health curriculum.
- Join Events: Attend local or virtual events — workshops, panel discussions, or community walks — to learn more and raise awareness, together.
- Support Communication: Create spaces at home and school where children feel safe expressing their thoughts. Encouraging open conversations builds trust and reduces shame.
- Engage with Local Organizations: Volunteer your time, donate resources, or partner with local mental health initiatives, including programs like Head Start. Every connection counts.
Be A Part of the Solution: Advocate for Children’s Mental Health
Your actions matter. Supporting Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day and programs like Head Start, you help build a healthier future for all children.
To learn more, visit SAMHSA, your local mental health organizations, and Head Start centers to access resources, support services, and opportunities to make a positive difference.
