Children Thriving

Mental Health Month, Reaching Every Community

Every child and family deserves access to life-changing mental health care.

This May, we recognize the clinicians, caregivers, educators, and communities working every day to support children’s mental health and well-being.

Since 1949, Mental Health Month has raised awareness about the importance of mental wellness, reduced stigma, and promoted access to care.

At The REACH Institute, we believe expanding access to care starts with supporting the people providing it. Through practical, evidence-based training and resources, we work to help clinicians build the confidence and skills needed to care for children and families in communities across the country.

As the needs facing children and families continue to grow, so does the importance of making mental health support easier to access, navigate, and deliver. This month, we’re reflecting on the impact of that work, and the role we all play in building a stronger future for children’s mental health.

What You Can Do This Month

  • Be honest. When someone asks how you’re doing, let them know how you really feel. Sharing our experiences reduces stigma and creates space for others to open up, too.
  • Ask the hard questions. There’s no evidence that asking about suicide increases its risk, so it’s always better to ask. You could save a life. The Jed Foundation offers tips on how to start the conversation.
  • Join the conversation. Share your story, your progress, and helpful resources on social media. Tag @ The REACH Institute so we can find and share your posts.
  • Find support.
    • Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat, or click here for a list of more crisis resources.
    • Make an appointment with your primary care clinician, or find a REACH-trained provider here.

Resources for Clinicians

If you’re a primary care or mental health professional, YOU have a unique opportunity to transform the lives of the 1 in 5 children and teens experiencing a mental health disorder. The first step toward REACHing Every Community starts with you.

  • Train with REACH – Learn evidence-based mental health care skills to meet the growing demand in your practice.
  • Access free tools – Our Rating Scales and other tools for providers (visit the Mental Health Resources tab in the menu above) feature practical resources for addressing common concerns like anxiety, ADHD, depression, and aggression.
  • Consult the experts – Find your state’s Child Psychiatry Access Program (CPAP) for direct psychiatric support.

We know that compassion fatigue is real, and you can’t pour from an empty cup. Read Burnout, Mental Health, & Practical Tools for Physicians or explore the ProQOL site to learn about compassion fatigue and find self-care strategies to prevent or address burnout and support you in continuing your important work.

Get Help Now

If you or someone you know is struggling, you’re not alone.

Crisis & Support Hotlines:

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 988
SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) | TTY 1-800-487-4889
Text 741741 (text “STEVE” for POC counselor)
Suicide Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Trans Lifeline: 1-877-565-8860
Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQIA+): 1-866-488-7386
GLBT National Youth Talkline: 1-800-246-7743
RAINN Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
Substance Use Help: 1-844-289-0879

Contact 988

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