Children's Mental Health
Support our mission to combat mental health challenges in children—each day brings new opportunities to make a difference. Each day, we dedicate ourselves to working even harder to support the youth in our community who are in need and facing challenges related to mental health.
Data and Statistics on Children's Mental Health
Indicators of positive mental health are present in most children. National US data from 2021-2022 show that:
- Nearly 4 out of 5 children ages 6 months to 5 years (79%) exhibit all of 4 indicators of flourishing:1
- 96% usually or always are affectionate and tender with parents or caregivers.
- 83% usually or always bounce back quickly when things do not go their way.
- 95% usually or always show interest and curiosity in learning new things.
- 99% usually or always smile and laugh.
- 3 out of 5 children ages 6 to 17 (61%) exhibit all of 3 indicators of flourishing:1
- 83% usually or always show interest and curiosity in learning new things.
- 72% usually or always stay calm and in control when faced with a challenge.
- 81% usually or always work to finish tasks they start.
Childhood mental health conditions affect many children and families. In 2018-2019:
- 1 in 7 children ages 3 to 17 (13%) had a current, diagnosed mental or behavioral health condition.2
Mental health conditions can begin in early childhood and the prevalence changes with age. Although there are some exceptions, most mental health conditions are more common with increased age (see figure below).
