Date
Wednesday
May

May 7

National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day

Honor National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day and spread the message of understanding, support, and care for our youth!

Yearly Date
May 7
Type
Day
Category
Health

Introduction

Mark your calendar for National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day on May 7 and join us in celebrating the importance of mental health in young people. This day was created to help bring attention to the issues that children face each day with their mental health, as well as to provide assistance and resources to those who need it most. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about how we can better support our children in all aspects of their lives, both emotionally and mentally. Let's work together to ensure our kids receive the care they deserve!

National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day Timeline

1896
Child Psychology Emerges
The field of child psychology is officially recognized with the opening of the first psychology clinic at the University of Pennsylvania by Lightner Witmer.
1945
WHO Founded
The foundation of the World Health Organization (WHO) begins a new era in public health, increasing global awareness about children's mental health issues.
1969
Child Mental Health Services Act
President Richard Nixon signs the Child Mental Health Services Act creating community mental health centers to provide services to children.
1990
Children's Mental Health Campaign
The Children's Defense Fund launches a campaign to raise awareness and funding for pediatric mental health support.
2002
President's New Freedom Commission
President George W. Bush establishes the New Freedom Commission on Mental Health, focusing on improving mental health service delivery for all people, including children.
2005
National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) launches the first National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day to highlight the importance of children's mental health.

How to Celebrate National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day

1

Create a Mental Health Toolkit

Creating a toolkit full of mental health resources can help children gain access to the information they need to stay healthy. Include books, magazines, websites, and other resources they can use.

2

Attend a Mental Health Awareness Event

Check your local community for events that focus on mental health awareness. This is a great way to learn more about how to support children's mental health and connect with others who are passionate about the same cause.

3

Volunteer in Your Community

Find a local organization that works with children and youth who are struggling with mental health issues and offer your time and talents. Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.

4

Write an Article or Blog Post

Write an article or blog post about mental health awareness and share it with others. You can also encourage readers to take action by getting involved in their local community or donating to a mental health organization.

5

Donate to a Mental Health Charity

Donating to a mental health charity is a great way to support children's mental health and make sure they get the help they need. Look for organizations that provide counseling, therapy, support groups, and other resources for children and their families.

Why National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day is Important

A

It raises awareness of the issue

The goal of National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day is to raise awareness and understanding of the psychological issues facing our youth. By highlighting the importance of children’s mental wellbeing, it can help people to become more sympathetic towards those that are struggling and provide an opportunity for further education around these topics.

B

It encourages action

National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day serves as a call to action for individuals, schools, and organizations to take action on this important issue. It can inspire people to get involved in developing solutions, providing support and resources, or donating funds or other resources so that we can all work together to ensure every child has access to the care they need.

C

It promotes compassion and understanding

This day is a reminder that mental health isn't something to be ashamed of. Instead, it's something that deserves our attention and understanding. Being kind and compassionate to those suffering from mental illness goes a long way in helping them find healing, and National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day aims to promote just that!

National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
May 6
Saturday
2024
May 6
Monday
2025
May 6
Tuesday
2026
May 6
Wednesday
2027
May 6
Thursday