Power2Parent – Join the Movement

Championing Parents: First Responders in the Youth Mental Health Crisis

As parents, we find ourselves on the front lines of the youth mental health crisis, a role we never anticipated but have embraced out of sheer necessity.

Today, more young people are grappling with mental health challenges than ever before. According to the World Health Organization, one in seven 10-19-year-olds experiences a mental disorder. With mental health services stretched to their limits, we, the parents, have become the first responders in our children’s battles.

Studies have shown that our involvement is crucial; our children have the best chance of recovery when we are actively supporting them. Research from the National Institute of Mental Health indicates that family support can significantly improve treatment outcomes for children and adolescents with mental health issues. Furthermore, a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry found that parental involvement in therapy led to better outcomes in treating anxiety disorders in children.

We are not just caregivers; we are essential partners in their journey to wellness. We are the ones who notice the first signs of distress, who provide comfort during the darkest times, and who advocate tirelessly for the services our children need. Yet, despite our critical role, we often feel overlooked and undervalued by the very systems designed to support our children.

The numbers are staggering. In the UK alone, the number of children referred to mental health services has increased by 134% over the past five years. With such overwhelming demand, many families face long waiting times for professional help, leaving parents to fill the gap.

We ask for respect, acknowledgment, and support for the vital role we play.

Please respect us. Please acknowledge us. Please support us.

Together, we can make a difference in our children’s lives.

Sources: World Health Organization. (2021). Adolescent mental health. : National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Family involvement in mental health treatment. : Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. (2019). Parental involvement in therapy for childhood anxiety disorders. : NHS Digital. (2023). Mental health of children and young people in England.