FIGURE The nation faces a crisis in mental health for children and adolescents, according to a report released in January by U.S. Surgeon General David Satcher. One in 10 children and adolescents suffers from mental illness severe enough to cause impairment. But fewer than one-fifth who need treatment for any mental health condition receive it. Moreover, World Health Organization research suggests that by 2020, international levels of childhood psychiatric disorders will rise proportionately by more than 50%.
There is currently no primary mental health care system for children, and disparities in access abound because of race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. The surgeon general's report introduces a blueprint for addressing the mental health needs of children, including increasing public awareness of children's mental health concerns, reducing the stigma associated with mental illness, and improving assessment and recognition of psychiatric disorders in children.
For the full report, visit http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/cmh/childreport.htm.