As parents, we care deeply about our child's well being, and make sure we take them to their annual physical exam. However, the emotional well being of a child is often not monitored and addressed with the same vigor as their physical well being. Unfortunately, it takes a crisis to call our attention to the mental and emotional turmoil of our children. And, sometimes, it is too late.  

According to the World Health Organization, 20% of the world's children and adolescents have mental disorders across all cultures. About half of mental disorders begin before the age of 14. Neuropsychiatric disorders are among the leading causes of worldwide disability in young people. And, when left untreated, they lead to school failure, family conflicts, substance abuse, violence, juvenile and criminal justice involvement and suicide. In the U.S., suicide is the third leading cause of death in youth ages 15 to 24. More teenagers and young adults die from suicide than from cancer, heart disease, AIDS, birth defects, stroke, pneumonia, influenza and chronic lung disease combined. Over 90 percent of children and adolescents who commit suicide have a mental disorder.

Fortunately, early intervention and comprehensive treatment works!  

As a mother and mental health advocate, my heart breaks every time I hear a parent say "if only I had sought help sooner, perhaps my child would still be alive." As parents, it is critical we educate ourselves about the early signs and symptoms of mental illness, and seek help.  

In this issue, I share 12 Questions Every Parent Should Ask About Their Child's Mental Health. Please share it with your family and friends, and get help if your child needs it. You can save your child's life! 

Wishing you wellness, 

Gayathri Ramprasad, MBA, CPS

Founder & President, ASHA International

HEALING FROM DEPRESSION AND FINDING THE LIGHT WITHIN
by Gayathri Ramprasad

 

 

Everyone who struggles with a mental illness, or who knows anyone with depression, anxiety, or any other mental illness, must read this engrossing true story of courage in the face of heartbreaking adversity."

- Dilip V. Jeste, M.D.  

President, American Psychiatric Association

 

Shadows in the Sun is now available at Hazelden, Amazon, Barnes & Nobel, Powell's Books and other major bookstores in print and e-books.

Proceeds from the sale of the books will benefit ASHA International's programs and services.

To learn more about the book, read an excerpt, and reviews, please  click here...