A number of recent developments have begun pointing the way toward a new approach to children’s mental health in the United States. Belief in the need for a new approach is fueled by concern about overburdened health care systems, high costs, and fragmented approaches to children’s mental health.
At the same time, hope for a new approach is inspired by successful examples of public health efforts in the area of children’s physical health, increased recognition of the positive impact of System of Care values, and greater understanding of the ways healthy environments can enhance children’s development.
