From Pandemic to Progress: Navigating Mental Health Challenges and Breaking the Stigma for Kids

Increase in the number of children with mental health illnesses

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Canopy Children’s Solutions officials have reported an increase in the number of children experiencing some form of mental illness. Shae Hutchins, a representative from Canopy, stated that there was a significant rise in emergency room visits for mental health episodes, with a 50 percent increase in teenaged girls seeking treatment for self-harm.

However, despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic, there has been a decrease in the stigma surrounding mental health from 2020 to 2024. Children are now more comfortable talking about mental health and seeking counseling services. Hutchins emphasized the importance of adults recognizing the need for counseling early on to support children’s mental well-being.

Hutchins mentioned that children are becoming more open to discussing mental health in schools and seeking help from counselors as part of their regular healthcare routine. It is crucial for parents, teachers, and caregivers to engage in conversations with children about mental health and provide support when needed.

If a child is showing signs of mental health issues, it is recommended to bring them in for counseling to determine the appropriate resources and support they may need. For more information on mental health resources, you can visit the Canopy Children’s Solutions website.

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