More Children’s Mental Health Services Needed for Anxiety

Children’s mental health services exist, but they’re pretty sparsely utilized. Studies have shown that out of children with mental illnesses, only about 36 percent receive treatment–and a large portion of those who do receive treatment only had a few visits to a mental health professional.

Mental health issues in children aren’t rare, either. Greater than 1 in 5 children will deal with a serious mental health issue at some point in their lives. The fact that so many suffer from mental health issues, yet few receive treatment, should be alarming to any parent.

Anxious thoughts common in students

It’s becoming more and more apparent that today’s school demands a lot more from the average student than just 20 years ago. College as the next step after high school has increasingly become normal for the average young adult, which can place a large portion of anxiety on a student’s shoulders to get good grades, be involved, stay social, and have the perfect resume.

In a recent study conducted by a mental health charity called Place2Be, it was discovered that of children aged 10 to 11, about two-thirds of them “worried all the time”. What were the things that stressed these children out the most? Friends, family, and the prospect of failing in school.

Along with that, girls tended to worry more about the possibility of being bullied or how they were perceived by others. More than 1 in 5 children didn’t know what to do when faced with this immense amount of worry, either.
The research shows that anxious thoughts can begin as early as elementary school. Anxious thoughts can morph into much deeper issues, such as an anxiety disorder if young people aren’t taught how to deal with these emotions and thoughts constructively. This exemplifies the need for more children’s mental health services to be utilized and promoted.

While many schools may have a counselor or two available for students in need, it’s usually not promoted as a normal means of dealing with issues. If a student is feeling overwhelmed, instead of keeping it in, they should feel comfortable heading to a counselor or adult for further help. Children’s mental health services are essential to the overall wellness of future generations, which is why we should strive as a society to include them more often and thoroughly.

Asheville Academy can help with self-esteem for girls

Asheville Academy is a therapeutic boarding school that offers children’s mental health services for girls, ages 10-14. Our students commonly struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, social isolation, and other behavioral or emotional challenges.

With the help of our licensed therapists, experienced teachers, caring staff, and expertly designed program, our students move closer to a healthier life. We use the best tactics and therapeutic methods in order to help our girls move towards a successful future at Asheville Academy.

For more information about children’s mental health services at Asheville Academy, call 800-264-8709 today.