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Getting Help for Your Child’s Mental Health: 19 Resources for Parents & Caregivers

Have concerns about your child’s or teen’s mental health? Reach out to your child’s doctor first to get a referral to a mental health professional who can offer more guidance and support.
Boys and Girls Club of America
January 16, 2024

Talking with kids and teens about mental health is important. Having a safe, judgement-free environment where they feel comfortable discussing their feelings can make all the difference.

To help create these spaces, stay connected with the people in your child’s life who have experience with addressing mental health concerns — pediatricians, teachers, school counselors, religious or spiritual leaders. These individuals can be your first point of contact when it comes to identifying and addressing changes in your child’s mental health.

Go-To Youth Mental Health Resources (Starting with Your Child’s Doctor)

If you have concerns about your child’s or teen’s mental health, reach out to their doctor first for a referral to a mental health professional who can offer targeted guidance and support. 

If your child does not have a primary care doctor but is in need of mental health support, call 211 to ask if there is a mobile mental health crisis unit available in your area. Trained mental health professionals will come to where you are to provide a crisis assessment and next step recommendations. If a mobile unit is not available, they will direct you to the nearest emergency room. 

In the case of a life-threatening situation involving your child, dial 911 immediately. 


Here are some additional websites to check out for youth mental health resources:

Mental Health Resources for Youth of Different Cultures and LGBTQ+ Identities

Young people with LGBTQ+ identities and/or from diverse cultures face unique challenges that can lead to mental health issues. These challenges can stem from identity, language barriers, discrimination and cultural differences.

It is essential to provide mental health resources that are culturally responsive and sensitive to address these challenges and reduce stigma. Mental health professionals who understand cultural backgrounds can provide appropriate support and help kids and teens feel comfortable seeking help.

Here are some mental health resources for LGBTQ+ youth and youth from diverse cultures to keep in your back pocket:

Creating a Mental Health Emergency Plan with Your Child

It’s important to prepare your child or teen for a potential mental health crisis by working together to create a plan in case of emergency. One option is to visit a local emergency room or mental health crisis center if they experience suicidal thoughts. These facilities have trained professionals who can help ensure the safety of both you and your child. They will also collaborate with you to determine the optimal next steps to ensure that your child receives the appropriate care and support.

If at any point during your conversations your child shares that they have suicidal thoughts or intentions, your only priority is to keep them safe.

For immediate safety and life-threatening mental health concerns, call 911 and request a mental health trained officer.


If your child or teen is not in immediate danger but may benefit from speaking to a trained crisis professional, you can also direct them to these crisis prevention hotlines:

Supporting kids’ and teens’ emotional well-being has never been more important. Find more resources for talking to your child about mental health, noticing and addressing signs of stress in youth and more on Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Mental Health homebase. 

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Boys & Girls Clubs of America provides youth mentorship, mental health services and meaningful life experiences that boost youth self-esteem, build confidence and contribute to healthy mental, emotional and physical well-being. Join us on our mission of helping all young people reach their full potential:

 

 

 

 

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