Addressing America’s Mental Health Crisis: Government Initiatives at a Glance

Introduction:

Mental health in children has become a growing concern for decades, with COVID only exasperating the problem. In a recent blot post, I discuss some of the startling statistics; you can read that article by clicking HERE. This crisis has prompted the United States government to implement and update policies aimed at addressing and preventing mental health crises in this vulnerable population [1]. Recognizing the significance of early intervention and support, the government has taken steps to improve mental health services, increase awareness, and reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues in children [2].

Children’s mental health awareness

Mental health issues affecting children and adolescents in the United States have received significant attention in 2022, primarily because of COVID-19, however, child and adolescent mental health was a crisis before COVID ever struck. In a previous article, I discussed the statistics around the mental health crisis for kids that was stalking our children before COVID. You can see that article HERE. While the social and physical disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic are directly responsible for this year’s emergency, our evidence shows that children are the problem today. Mental health was a decade before the epidemic. Therefore, there is a great sense of urgency to address childhood and adolescent mental illness [1].

Presidents, members of Congress from both parties, governors and governors have recognized the need to work with all levels of government, civil society and our local agencies to meet the mental health needs of America’s children [2].

According to the recent report of the US Department of Health and Human Services, the Biden-Harris project was started by the US government under which the Health Administration has announced $200 million to support the mental health of youth [3].

The Biden-Harris administration is unwaveringly committed to addressing the nation’s mental health epidemic, especially as it affects our young people. According to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, a core component of President Biden’s Agenda for Unity is expanding mental health services to ensure that anyone who needs help can get care anytime, anywhere. “By ensuring that all Americans have equitable access to services, we are revolutionizing mental health and substance abuse treatment across the country. These tools and resources will help families struggling to meet their children’s mental health care needs [3].”

Factors Contributing to the Increase in Child Mental Health Crises:

• Exposure to the Internet and social media is responsible for building fictitious standards in children, making them feel inadequate due to maintaining a standard digital image and exposure to cyberbullying [4].
• Academic Pressure heightened stress levels and anxiety among students due to Fear of academic failure high competition and societal expectations.
• High-stress family environments, Family conflicts, and economic instability impact the mental well-being of kids
• Isolation and loneliness can result from the breakdown of long-standing social structures, increased use of screens that affect personal encounters, and societal changes that disrupt meaningful social connections [5].
• Adverse childhood experiences leading to lasting mental health effects or exposure to childhood trauma
• Disruptions to routine and social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Uncertainties about the future contribute to heightened anxiety.
• Challenges associated with remote learning and adapting to new educational modes [6].

US Government Policies Addressing Factors Contributing to Child Mental Health Crises:

• Collaboration with tech companies to develop age-appropriate content and features that prioritize mental well-being.
• Increased awareness among children and parents about healthy technology use.
• Empowerment of children to navigate online spaces safely.
• Integration of social-emotional learning (SEL) programs within the education system.
• Revision of academic assessment strategies to focus on holistic development rather than purely academic achievements.
• Increased funding for social services and mental health support in low-income communities [6].
• Implementation of programs that address family stressors, providing counseling and support services.
• Funding community-building initiatives and after-school programs.
• Promoting community engagement through neighborhood events and activities.
• Integration of trauma-informed practices in schools and mental health services.
• Increased training for educators and mental health professionals in identifying and addressing trauma [6].

By addressing many different elements that contribute to the mental health crisis, this policy works to create a cohesive and encouraging environment for children as a whole.

The government’s strategic initiative aims to build resilience, reduce stress and ensure every child has the opportunity to develop emotionally and intellectually [4].

Overview of US mental health policies

There are dozens of health institutes working in the USA including governmental and non-governmental organisations. Now, the increases in mental health crises in kids alert them more. The most active health institutes that are working on the mental health of young people, especially children are the following:

1. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [3]
2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) [5].
3. The Administration for Children and Families (ACF)
4. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
5. Mental Health America (MHA) [5].

These organizations have introduced certain policies to overcome the mental health crises in young people and also provided funds to make better improvements in the Department of Mental Health [6]. The funds have been divided into the following categories:

1. Support of behavioral health to build a better connection between families and kids
2. Expanding the mental health care units to make easier access to mental health facilities
3. Improvements in the child mental health welfare system by improving the quality of mental health facilities
4. Introducing mental health facilities and mental health awareness at school level

Mental Health Awareness and Education:

The US government has prioritized mental health education in schools to increase awareness and reduce stigma. Funding has been allocated to develop and implement programs that teach students, teachers, and parents about recognizing signs of mental health issues and accessing appropriate support.

Expansion of Mental Health Services in Schools:

To ensure timely and accessible support, the government has increased funding for mental health services within school settings. This includes hiring more mental health professionals, such as counselors and psychologists, and implementing initiatives that focus on preventive measures [7].

Telehealth and Remote Services:

Recognizing the need for flexibility, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government has expanded telehealth services for mental health [7]. This enables children to access mental health support remotely, ensuring continuity of care even in challenging circumstances [6].

Collaboration between Agencies:

The government has encouraged collaboration between different agencies, including the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of Education, and SAMHSA. This coordinated effort aims to create a comprehensive approach to address mental health issues in children [7].

Community-Based Initiatives:

Community involvement is crucial in tackling mental health challenges. The government has supported community-based initiatives that focus on mental health promotion, prevention, and early intervention. This includes partnerships with local organizations and community leaders [1].

Conclusion:

The recent policies implemented by the US government reflect a commitment to addressing mental health crises in children comprehensively. By combining awareness, education, increased access to services, and community involvement, these policies aim to create a supportive environment for children to thrive mentally and emotionally. Ongoing evaluation and adjustments to these policies will be crucial in ensuring their effectiveness in the evolving landscape of child mental health.

…

References

1. Community-Based Approaches to Child Mental Health: Best Practices and Resources. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/what-we-do/nih-almanac/national-institute-mental-health-nimh
2. Mental Health Education in Schools: A Comprehensive Guide. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1251771.pdf
3. Interagency Collaboration for Child Mental Health: A Framework for Action. U.S. Department of Health And Human Services. https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-youth-mental-health-advisory.pdf
4. Richter, A., Sjunnestrand, M., Strandh, M. R., & Hasson, H. (2022). Implementing School-Based Mental Health Services: A scoping review of the literature summarizing the factors that affect implementation. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(6), 3489. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063489
5. Curfman, A., Hackell, J. M., Herendeen, N. E., Alexander, J., Marcin, J. P., Moskowitz, W. B., Bodnar, C. E. F., Simon, H. K., & McSwain, S. D. (2021). Telehealth: Improving access to and quality of pediatric health care. Pediatrics, 148(3). https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2021-053129
6. Expanding Mental Health Services in Schools: A Federal Initiative. SAMSHA. https://www.samhsa.gov/school-campus-health/behavioral-health-resources-youth
7. Telehealth Services: Improving Access to Mental Health Care for Children.” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). https://www.cms.gov/files/document/emerging-practices-telehealth-advance-health-equity-substance-use-disorder-sud-treatment-medicare.pdf