HELP ME GROW: National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day

National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day (NCMHA) is Thursday, May 10, 2018! This day recognizes the importance of children’s mental health and how it affects their development. Mental health for children means reaching developmental and emotional milestones. Being mentally healthy is important for all children. A mentally healthy child builds strong social skills and can cope with problems. A mentally healthy child has a positive outlook on life. They’re known to do well at home, in school, and in their communities.

NCMHA 2018 focuses on the importance of caring for the mental health needs of children and their families who have experienced trauma. One type of trauma that affects families are ACEs, or adverse childhood experiences. ACEs are events that a child experiences that have a negative impact on his or her life. ACEs include abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction. A growing child will struggle if he or she grows up in a negative environment. Children are at more risk of negative health outcomes when the number of ACEs increases.

We all can work together to help Delawarean children and families thrive. All caregivers need to understand how abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction harms everyone. Parents, families, and friends can support and inform one another about how to get help. One tool at everyone’s disposal is our Help Me Grow program!

Help Me Grow is designed to connect children, especially the vulnerable, and their families to needed services. It also provides assistance to care-givers and child-serving providers across the state. When you call Help Me Grow, you will reach trained child development specialists. They will work with you to identify the support you need to raise a healthy child. The specialist will refer you to a program near you that can meet your needs. Help Me Grow is a free service available to all Delawareans. The Help Me Grow experts will follow up and ensure that you got the help you need. Dial 2-1-1 to speak with a Help Me Grow expert today.