More than 700 educators, school health professionals, and mental health experts from around the world are expected to attend the conference at the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel. Because of the turmoil at home and in their communities, many children suffer from social or emotional problems, or feelings of constant fear and hopelessness. Dr. Weist also directs mental health programs in 21 Baltimore public schools. According to Dr. Weist, numerous studies show that school-based mental health programs really do work by reaching the young people who need them the most and improving their social and emotional functioning. Access to proper mental health care for children remains limited.
Many barriers still exist for families seeking treatment at community based centers.
Some are afraid of the social stigma of receiving mental health services, while others may not be able to afford care. In other cases, parents are simply not aware of the mental heath services available for children. Fewer than 10 percent of schools in the U.S. have comprehensive mental health care programs available to all young people. Youth are the most neglected group of people who need mental health services in this country, but school-based programs can help. We need to continue to develop programs with input from kids, parents, church groups, and anyone else who has a stake in the child s well being, says Dr. Weist.