Children's mental health education, prevention and support

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 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 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. See a map of respite care grants.

Group psychotherapy or support groups offer a way for children and youth to connect with others experiencing similar emotional, behavioral or social challenges and benefit from treatment in a group setting provided by mental health professionals. Parents of children with mental illness may also benefit from meeting with other parents sharing similar situations.