May 7th is Children's Mental Health Awareness Day

On May 7^th, during Mental Health Awareness Month, we also acknowledge Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day. It is an opportunity to recognize how mental health shows up in the lives of children, and what meaningful support can look like both at home and in schools.

According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA, 2026), “one in five youth has a diagnosable mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder”.  Many children experience mental health challenges each year, yet a significant number do not receive the support they need. Increasing awareness is an important step, but awareness alone is not enough. For families and educators, the question becomes: what should we look for, and what can we do next?

What Does Mental Health Look Like in Children?

Mental health in children does not always present in obvious ways. While some challenges may be more visible, others can be quieter and easier to overlook.

Children may show signs of emotional distress through:

• Persistent sadness, worry, or irritability

• Changes in sleep or appetite

• Sudden changes in behavior

• Difficulty concentrating or engaging in school

• Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities they once enjoyed

These behaviors may be dismissed as “phases” or typical developmental changes, yet ongoing or intensifying patterns may signal that a child needs additional support.

It is also important to recognize that mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD can affect daily functioning in various ways. While some may perceive certain conditions as more or less “serious,” each can present real challenges for children depending on their environment, supports, and individual needs.

Mental Health and Disability: Expanding the Conversation

Mental health diagnoses may also require support in school settings through 504 plans or Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). If qualified, these plans can support student learning and development, especially when conditions begin to impact learning and participation.

Expanding our understanding of disability to include mental health helps ensure that all students receive the support they need to learn and thrive.

If You’re Concerned About Your Child

It is not always easy to know when to step in or seek help. For many families, the first step is simply paying closer attention.

If you are concerned your child may be struggling:

• Observe patterns over time: take note of changes in mood, behavior, or routines.

• Start a conversation: use open-ended, age-appropriate language to check in.

• Connect with school staff: teachers, school counselors, and support staff can offer insight into how your child is doing in different environments.

• Seek professional guidance: pediatricians, school psychologists, and licensed mental health providers in your community can help assess concerns and recommend next steps.

Early support makes a meaningful difference. Reaching out does not mean something is “wrong”, it means you are paying attention and taking good care.

Supporting Mental Health at Home

While professional support is important when needed, everyday interactions also play a powerful role in maintaining children’s mental health.

Some simple ways to provide support at home include:

• Maintaining consistent routines to create a sense of stability

• Creating space for regular check-ins about feelings and experiences

• Modeling healthy strategies, such as taking breaks or talking through challenges

• Encouraging open communication

These seemingly small but consistent actions can help children feel safe, supported, and understood.

Moving Forward

Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day reminds us that supporting mental health is not a one-day effort, it is an ongoing commitment. By recognizing early signs, expanding our understanding of disability, and taking proactive steps, families and educators can work together to better support children’s well-being.

Awareness is an important starting point. What matters most is what we do with it.

For more information and other resources, visit SAMHSA’s Mental Health for Children and Families page here: samhsa.gov/mental-health/children-and-families

References

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2026, April 6). Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day. https://www.samhsa.gov/about/digital-toolkits/childrens-mental-health-awareness-day