Education, prevention and support

Education, prevention and support services provide information about mental health needs, treatment resources and emotional support to help children and families increase their understanding and improve their skills in dealing with mental illness.

Support for families and caregivers

These services help children, youth and families learn about mental health, build skills and get support to stay well.

Education and prevention

Education and prevention services educate the general public and groups at risk of developing mental illness and increase understanding of problems associated with mental illness. Minnesota counties provide information on predictors and symptoms of mental disorders, where mental health services are available and how to access those services. Contact your local county agency or tribe for more information about education and prevention services.

Family psychoeducation

Family psychoeducation services explain, educate, and support the child and family. By understanding the child's symptoms of mental illness, the impact on the child's development, and needed components of treatment and skill development, the family can help the child to prevent setbacks or developing other disorders as well as achieve optimal mental health and long-term resilience.

Respite care

Respite care supports children with emotional or behavioral disturbance to stay with the child's family or long-term primary caretaker. This type of support can also be used on an emergency or crisis basis. Respite care services provide temporary care for children with serious mental health needs who live at home. Access to this type of program gives families and caregivers a much needed break while offering a safe environment for their children. Contact your local county agency or tribe for more information about respite care.

County or Tribal agency directory Map of respite care grants (PDF)

Support groups