The Vermont federation of families for children’s mental health

Showcases Thriving Children, Youth, and Families as Part of

National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day

 

The Vermont Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health   is joining Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) programs across the United States to participate in National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day: Thriving in the Community.

 “National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day provides an important opportunity for our community to show how children and youth with mental health needs—as well as their families—thrive when they have the right supports and services available,” said Kathy Holsopple the Executive Director of the Federation of Families. “Together with other children’s mental health initiatives, we are changing families’ lives and improving outcomes all over the country.”

SAMHSA reports that in 2006, 21 percent of youth aged 12 to 17 received treatment or counseling for emotional or behavioral problems in the previous year. To help children and youth in Vermont, the Federation of Families provides information, advocates, informs, and supports families, children, and youth experiencing or at risk to experience emotional, behavioral, or mental health challenges. This work is part of a national effort by SAMHSA to fulfill the action steps set forth in “Transforming Mental Health Care in America, The Federal Action Agenda: First Steps,” which outlines steps necessary to make mental health services and supports more accessible and effective for children, youth, and families across the United States.

Located in Waterbury, The Vermont Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health (VFFCMH) became one of the first statewide chapters of the national Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health and was incorporated as a non-profit family support organization in 1993. Today, VFFCMH offers families, children, and youth statewide information, support, and system navigation. The most important things The Federation offers are hope, encouragement, and the knowledge that you are not alone in your struggles. The Federation supports over 700 families each year.