Dear Editor:

As adults we are always talking about how much we value our children and want better for them than whatever we had. We have high hopes for the future with all of its advanced technology and opportunities for learning. Yet in our ongoing push to provide the best sneakers, the shiniest bikes and cars, and the highest quality education, we seem to be forgetting about the mental wellness of our children. How can this next generation of world and local leaders handle all the stress of life in the future if they are struggling with internal concerns such as ADHD, bipolar disorder and depression? How can we expect our children to succeed as adults when we are ignoring helping them deal with many of the challenges they face today?

If your child has a rash, you get an appointment with the dermatologist. If your child has a cavity, you make an appointment with his dentist. Why then if your child isn't eating or is isolating himself and acting out in negative ways do yo look the other way and just hope it will go away, or he will grow out of this phase? Don't we owe it to our children to attend to their mental needs as well as their physical needs? Don't we owe it to them to seek treatment for depression and other mental health issues that can potentially dim a bright future?

A recent Washington Post article cited a study that found as many as two million American teens are affected by depression. A recent Kids Count report noted that over 20 percent of all 9-17 year-olds in our state meet some criteria for a mental health disorder. Many social problems such as domestic violence, bullying, juvenile crime and school dropout rates can be directly linked to some form of mental health concerns within the family unit. Suicide is the third-leading cause of death for 11-18 year-olds in our state.

How can we sit by and report that we are doing all we can to provide a healthy, happy life for our children with numbers like these? Don't you think it is time we as a society stop stigmatizing mental illness and recognize it as a true health concern? Let's educate ourselves, our families, our teachers and our clergy on mental wellness issues and the qualified and professional treatment providers that are available right here in our community. Yes, our children can make a better world but only if we make the effort now to ensure their overall health and wellness. Sincerely, Beth Summer-Strait, M.Ed. Executive Director The P.A.C.E. Center