helpful information & links

 Children and teens look to their parents, teachers and trusted adults for information about the world around them, enabling them to reach expected milestones and mature into adulthood. However, for some children and teens, knowledge is insufficient; they also want reassurance and comfort that feared outcomes will not occur. Furthermore, they're dissatisfied with simple reassurances, such as "You've studied enough. You'll do fine," and seem to need unending examples, promises, and guarantees. This is called reassurance seeking. More information.

A guide for parents, caregivers and educators Download in English or Español.

Taking a mental health screening at www.MHAscreening.org is one of the quickest and easiest ways to determine whether you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition. 

·         The Parent Test is for parents of young people to determine if their child’s emotions, attention, or behaviors might be signs of a problem. Parent Test | MHA Screening (mhanational.org)

·         The Youth Test is for young people (age 11-17) who are concerned that their emotions, attention, or behaviors might be signs of a problem. Youth Test | MHA Screening (mhanational.org)

Children's Mental Health

 Mental Health America of Georgia (formerly known as the National Mental Health Association of Georgia) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with mental health challenges as well as promoting mental wellness throughout Georgia. We represent a growing movement of Americans who promote mental wellness for the health and well-being of everyone in our state, emphasizing mental health as a critical component of a healthy lifestyle. We work to increase the quality of life and advocate for independence for individuals with a severe and persistent mental illness through our training programs and supports. We advocate with community partners to eliminate health disparities and reduce stigma and discrimination.  More information

Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders.  DOWNLOAD FLIER

Mental Health in childhood means reaching developmental and emotional milestones, and learning healthy social skills and how to cope when there are problems. LEARN MORE

Three steps anyone can learn to help prevent suicide. More information

 Hello Georgia!  For crisis situations that are not life-threatening, find mental and behavioral health resources and other information below close to you. While these resources are general, the best resource is your family’s medical provider. More information

 Children can develop the same mental health conditions as adults, but their symptoms may be different. Know what to watch for and how you can help. READ MORE

AACAP's Facts for Families provide concise and up-to-date information on issues that affect children, teenager, and their families. READ MORE