How Families Can Support Children’s Mental Health During Awareness Week
- kendradelahooke
- 21 hours ago
- 4 min read
Big news for California: Governor Newsom has just signed a proclamation recognizing May 4-10 as Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week. This isn’t just another date on the calendar—it’s a critical reminder of how important mental health is for our kids and families.
With one in five adolescents in the U.S. reporting unmet mental health needs and growing concerns about social media’s impact, this week is a chance for parents, caregivers, and communities to reflect on how we can better support our children’s mental well-being.
The Current State of Children’s Mental Health
The statistics are staggering. Research shows 20% of adolescents in the United States report not receiving the mental health care they need. Suicide is now the second leading cause of death among young adults (ages 10-24) and accounts for 20% of all deaths in this age group in California. Perhaps most concerning, rates of suicide among preteens (ages 8-12) have increased by 8.2% annually since 2008. Behind these numbers are young people quietly navigating overwhelming emotions, pressures, and challenges.
The Role of Social Media
One modern complication is the outsized influence of social media channels. Adolescents who spend more than three hours per day on social media are twice as likely to experience mental health problems like anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression. While platforms can help kids connect, they also contribute to difficult patterns such as comparison, cyberbullying, and addiction.
Now more than ever, children’s mental health requires public awareness, strategic interventions, and unwavering support from families and caregivers.
California’s Bold Commitment to Children’s Mental Health
California’s Master Plan for Kids’ Mental Health
California is stepping up. The state’s Master Plan for Kids’ Mental Health addresses mental well-being in a holistic way, streamlining efforts across schools, healthcare systems, and communities. The plan emphasizes prevention, early intervention, and providing families with accessible, quality behavioral health services.
Through the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI), California is reshaping its system with children and their unique needs in mind. This initiative was co-created by youth and families and focuses on creating a proactive, prevention-first model.
Campaigns to Inspire Change
Programs such as "Move Your Body, Calm Your Mind" are designed to promote mental well-being by encouraging physical movement, mindfulness, and open conversations about mental health. When we normalize prioritizing both body and mental health, we empower kids and their caregivers to prioritize mental resilience and emotional health.
How Child Therapy Center LA Can Help
A Holistic Approach to Therapy in Santa Monica, CA
At Child Therapy Center LA, we approach mental health differently. We don’t focus on “fixing” behaviors or treating kids like a diagnosis. Instead, we start by addressing the foundations of every child’s mental well-being. This means ensuring quality sleep, balanced nutrition, healthy relationships, and plenty of time to play and explore outdoors.
Once these foundational needs are addressed, we work on emotion education and coping skills through evidence-backed therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, play therapy, and art therapy.
Services Tailored to Every Family
Child Therapy: We use creative techniques like imaginative play, sand tray therapy, and dance therapy to help kids process their feelings in a way that feels natural to them.
Adolescent Therapy: For teens, we focus on reducing conflict, increasing connection, and guiding them through life’s transitions with skills like emotional regulation and mindfulness.
Parent Therapy: We equip parents with tools to regulate their own emotions and support their child’s mental health. You are your child’s most powerful tool, after all.
Our therapists go beyond traditional methods. By connecting with the child, their family, and the root cause of behaviors, we set kids up to live their happiest, healthiest lives.
Modern, Accessible Care
Whether you’re local to Southern California or prefer the convenience of virtual therapy, we’ve got you covered. Our modern offices are designed to help kids feel at ease, and our online therapy options ensure access wherever you are. We also offer resources like our Attuned Parent Mini-Course, which empowers parents with actionable strategies to feel connected and confident.
How Families & Communities Can Make a Difference
Awareness isn’t enough on its own. Families and community members can take these steps to keep the momentum of Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week alive year-round:
Talk to your kids. Ask open-ended questions about their feelings, friends, and daily experiences. Kids can’t always articulate what’s wrong but showing that you’re interested and available makes a world of difference.
Set healthy boundaries with social media. Create device-free times at home and discuss the impact of social media use on mental health.
Engage in activities that promote mental wellness. Encourage family game nights, outdoor play, and breathing exercises that strengthen bonds and boost resilience.
Seek support if needed. You are not alone. Therapy is not a last resort but a proactive way to help young people thrive.
Take the Next Step in Supporting Mental Health
Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week reminds us that our roles as parents, caregivers, and community members are vital. By staying informed, fostering open conversations, and seeking resources when needed, we can build a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive emotionally and mentally.
Need help navigating your child’s mental health? The Child Therapy Center of Los Angeles is here to support you. Schedule an intro call today and learn how we can equip your family with the tools to grow together, every step of the way.
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