| Synchrony of Visalia, Inc. Healthy Families ~ Healthy Communities |
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Early Mental Health
Research has demonstrated that mental health disorders may be identified very early
in the life cycle. It is estimated that one half of adults who commit violent crimes had
an identifiable mental disorder before the age of 5 years. The incidence of disorders of
mood, attention, attachment and cognition increase when a history of parental
substance abuse or teen pregnancy is present. The high incidence of substance abuse
and teen pregnancy are risk factors well-known to be prevalent in Tulare County.
Consequently, the children in Tulare County are more likely to be exposed to toxic
substances in utero. This increases the likelihood that they will also be victims of
trauma, experience more anxious attachments and be impaired by learning or
cognitive disorders. Being born to parents with socio-economic risk factors increases
the likelihood that these children, who need specific types of parenting will not receive
the necessary mental health diagnostic and therapeutic services and interventions,
particularly if they live in outlying areas not routinely served by mental health services.
Who needs services?
Do you deal with a child or know of a child that has been suspended or expelled from
preschool? Do you work with a family that is frequently contacted by teachers or
daycare providers due to the child’s behavior? Have parents you serve indicate that
they (or the child’s teacher) notice their child’s behavior or personality is “different”
from children in the same age group? These children and their families, teachers and
care providers could benefit from an assessment and evaluation. The evaluative
process is an opportunity for parents to learn more about their child and to help them
understand their child’s behavior or personality. The assessment is helpful for
teachers or caregivers to understand their child with a suggested care plan for
modifying behaviors and to improve learning.
| We worry about what a child will be tomorrow, yet we forget that she or he is someone today. |
