Mental Health Support for Children & Families
Mental and physical health are equally important to a person’s overall health. Just as we all have physical health, we all have mental health – even babies and young children!
What is mental health?
Mental health is a state of emotional, psychological, and social well-being that enables us to cope with life’s stresses, realize our potential, learn and work successfully, and build and maintain positive relationships with others.
Mental health impacts how we think, feel and behave. Mental health is important in every stage of life, from infancy and early childhood to adolescence and throughout adulthood.
A Child's Mental Health Begins with You!
Healthy social-emotional development is the foundation for lifelong mental health. As adults, we can intentionally support children’s social-emotional development at every age.
Mental health resources
Jefferson Center for Mental Health – Offers a full range of services and resources to support the mental health of children, youth and families, including treatment for those dealing with perinatal mental health challenges. Jefferson Center has locations in Jefferson, Gilpin and Clear Creek Counties. Contact 303-425-0300 or visit the website.
Colorado Crisis Services – Call 844-493-TALK (8255) or visit the website for immediate support from the Colorado Crisis Services. You can also visit the Wheat Ridge Walk-in Center at 4643 Wadsworth Blvd. Wheat Ridge, 80033.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – NAMI connects people to support, services and treatment for mental health disorders. NAMI’s website includes free mental health education and training programs, support groups, publications, and a telephone support line. Visit NAMI’s website.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Free, confidential support via call or chat, available 24/7 for people in distress. Dial 988 to access prevention or crisis resources for yourself or someone you love. Visit the 988 Lifeline website.
National Maternal Mental Health Hotline – For those who are pregnant or just had a baby, this hotline offers free, confidential support 24/7 via phone or text. Call 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) or learn more on the website.
Psychology Today – Search for a therapist, learn about mental health and mental health disorders, and find resources for help with relationships, personal growth and family life. Visit the website.
Concerned about a Child's Mental Health?
Babies and young children can suffer from mental health problems caused by neglect, trauma, biological factors, or situations in their home environment.
Depression and anxiety are two common mental health disorders in young children. Learn more about the symptoms and treatment.
Support Mental Health Through Reading & Outdoor Activity 
Books to Help Children Learn about Feelings
Our book list has stories for infants, toddlers and elementary age children on topics such as coping with fears, self-control, friendship, grief and loss, and divorce.
Fun, Free Outdoor Activities for Families
Spending time outside and being active is a great way to support our own mental health and that of our kids. Check out our list of outdoor activities that you do right in your own backyard or out in our community.
Pregnancy-Related Mental Health Support & Substance Use Treatment
Struggling with Pregnancy-Related Depression or Anxiety?
You are not alone. Find free and confidential support or call the Postpartum Support Hotline at 1.800.944.4773.
Substance Use Treatment During & After Pregnancy
For families struggling with substance abuse during pregnancy or after the birth, there are confidential and non-judgmental resources in our community to support you.
Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/learn/index.htm
World Health Organization , https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-strengthening-our-response