Shortage of Providers Worsens Youth Mental Health Crisis

New data continues to reveal the mental health toll on youth from COVID-19, social media, mass violence, and the many other challenges kids face every day.

Some warning signs that your child may be having a mental health crisis are:

• Changes in sleep or eating patterns

• Mood changes including outbursts or extreme irritability

• Persistent sadness

• Losing interest in or withdrawing from things they normally enjoy

• Substance abuse starting or increasing

• Self-harm or talking about self-harm

• Talking about suicide or death

• Frequent stomachaches or headaches

• Difficulty concentrating

• Changes in school performance

• Missing or avoiding school

The Growing Mental Health Needs of Youth

Unfortunately, this is an all-too-common story for youth with mental health issues. A survey in 2021 of 88 children’s hospitals reported they admit, on average, four teens a day to inpatient mental health programs and there are not enough mental health professionals to meet the need of a worsened mental health crisis for youth.

Everyday Struggles for Young People

Young people deal with cyberbullying, social media pressures focused on body image. Offline, many young people struggle to cope with alcohol and other drug abusing parents, neglect, peers who use substances, violence, climate change and other threats and preoccupied caregivers who are struggling financially or personally.

Lack of Support in the Healthcare System

In the U.S. the healthcare system is stretched thin and there is little support for children and their families. Long waitlists, limited providers, and rising demand leave many kids without timely access to care, which can worsen mental health struggles over time.

When to Reach Out for Help

If you see signs or other concerns of a mental health struggle, reach out for help. Our therapists are here to provide quality evidence-based treatments for you. Seeking help early can make a big difference, giving children and teens the tools they need to build resilience and recover more quickly.