What Is Mental Health?
Mental health is not simply the absence or presence of a mental illness but, rather, a state of wellbeing that occurs on a continuum; it can also change dependent on changes in our lives. Our mental health affects our daily functioning including our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and how we interact with others.
Mental Illness in Children
Children experience a mental illness/disorder when impairment in their emotional, social, and/or behavioral functioning leads to significant distress and interferes with their ability to engage in developmental tasks. It is important to understand that mental illness is not an indication of something inherently wrong within a child or person.
More Common Than You Think
- 1 in 7 children suffers from mental illness in Manitoba [1].
- 70% of mental health problems have their onset in childhood or adolescence [2].
There Is Hope
The good news is that mental illness can be treated effectively. There are things that can be done to prevent mental illness and its impact and help improve the lives of children experiencing mental health concerns. Early intervention is best.
How KIDTHINK Can Help
To make a referral contact us
Sources
[1] Virgo Mental Health and Addictions Strategy Report, Manitoba 2018
[2] Government of Canada. (2006). The human face of mental health and mental illness in Canada. Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada
