Being mentally healthy during childhood means reaching developmental and emotional milestones within specific time frames, learning healthy social behaviors, and having coping skills and resilience to deal with conflicts and problems. Some children have challenges with some or all of these areas, either periodically or consistently throughout childhood. For parents and caregivers, this can be very confusing and scary.
Mental health disorders that affect children include:
Our Services for Families of Children with Mental Health Challenges
If you think your child is showing warning signs of mental illness, if you have received a diagnosis, or if you have concerns about your child’s behaviors, Maryland Coalition of Families can help! Our trained staff have experience as parents, grandparents and caregivers of children who have had challenges with their mental health – and now they use their knowledge to support other families.
Our staff can help you:
- Openly talk about the challenges of parenting children with mental health challenges
- Know that you are not alone
- Identify the strengths and best aspects of your child and your family
- Learn how the state programs work and help you negotiate your way through the social, legal and health care systems
- Learn about the services and supports available in your community and how to access them
- Navigate the school system and work collaboratively with teachers and administrators
- Advocate for your child’s needs at every stage of development
- Accept your child and the situation without feeling judged, ashamed, or guilty
- Connect with other families who know what you’re going through
- Find hope for the future
All of our services are confidential and free to families regardless of income. To connect with one of our staff, email us at [email protected] or call 410-730-8267.