As someone who works at the intersection of child-focused public health policy, advocacy and education, I am glad to see The Oregonian’s substantial coverage of youth mental health by reporter Casey Chaffin. Access to mental health support for young people is an important part of a comprehensive approach to health that should begin with their mothers at the prenatal stage and continue through their lifetimes.
Yet awareness of the importance of infant and early childhood mental health is still at an emergent stage, partly because diagnostic classification of mental health and developmental disorders in children younger than 5 did not exist until 1996. Research tells us that children who suffer from abuse, neglect or trauma — especially those facing additional barriers such as poverty — are more susceptible to mental health issues. Early intervention is effective and shows lasting benefits.
What does mental health look like in an infant or toddler? It begins with safe, stable and nurturing relationships with caregivers. Children who enjoy positive and engaging interactions in their earliest years are more likely to enjoy good mental health over their lifetimes. They also can experience, regulate and manage their emotions, key skills for later school readiness and success.
Expanding early screening for mental health issues; providing adequate training for people who work with infants, toddlers and their families; integrating mental health consultation and programming into child health and education services; and making sure insurance policies include mental health treatment for our youngest are all ways we can improve the network of support for our youngest children.
Elena Rivera, Portland