The Facts: 1 in 5 Children have a Mental Health Challenge

One in five might not sound like a lot to some people. Think of it as 20% of all children. Still not making an impact? How about this... In an average classroom of 25 children, that means that 5 children are affected. In other words, every classroom in America has at least 5 students with a mental health challenge that is most likely not being addressed. What's the big deal? Untreated mental health disorders can lead to school failure, personal victimization, substance abuse, violent/criminal behavior, and even suicide. What's worse? It can be avoided simply by diagnosis and treatment. It seems a shame that we are sentencing 5 children per classroom to the fates listed above. Be a green ribbon advocate because of the facts.