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ABOUT CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH
1 in 5 children suffers from a mental health problem. And of those children, only 1 in 5 gets the help they need. Mental illness is prevalent among infants, children, and youth. Children today face more complicated problems at increasingly younger ages. Many problems that exist today were unheard of 20 years ago. A family’s need for service is usually immediate. Unfortunately, the availability of help is not. Waiting lists are long, and families sometimes wait 4 to 6 months for services. For some families, it could be a full year before they receive help for a child who badly needs it. Meanwhile, untreated mental health problems can lead to family crises, school disruption, violent behaviour, or even suicide. Treating children’s mental health problems now will save money later. For every dollar spent on mental health in early childhood, seven dollars are saved in future social and health care related costs. Children’s mental health can affect everyone. Children’s mental health problems can impact entire communities, with disruptive and sometimes dangerous results. Mental health programs benefit not just children, but also their families, schools, and the communities in which they live.
HOW YOUR SUPPORT OF RAISE A CHILD'S SMILE HELPS CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Proceeds of Raise A Child’s Smile support a number of vital programs for children and families: Growing Together A prevention and early intervention program for children under age five in the St. Jamestown neighbourhood of Toronto. More information. Learning Through Play A parent education and child development program in use across Canada and internationally. More information. The ABC’s of Mental Health A web based resource that provides teachers with information and suggestions about common mental health problems in children from grades JK to 8. More information. Youth Outreach Program A range of direct mental health services, consultation and training, and resources with the aim of reducing violence and building a safer city. Baby Connection Project Teaches parents about infant/parent attachment, how to recognize infant’s cues signaling their need for nurturing, comfort, and security, and their own strengths in parenting. The Children's Caravan A multi-purpose prevention program "on wheels" which lends books, toys, and other resources while providing emotional support to parents and other child care professionals. The Hincks-Dellcrest Farm A residential treatment program set on a working 100-acre farm, providing treatment as well as vocational training in farming, construction, auto maintenance, horticulture, and domestic skills. More information. The Ethics Game A game for young adolescents that helps develop understanding of rights, responsibilities, and respect for others, as well as the ability to think through and make good decisions when faced with ethical problems. More information. |
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