Synchrony of Visalia, Inc.
Healthy Families  ~  Healthy Communities
Early Mental Health


Research has demonstrated that mental health disorders may be
identified 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.

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
the Central Valley. 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 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
children using a suggested care plan to modify behaviors and
improve learning.
We worry about what a child will be
tomorrow, yet we forget that she or he is someone today.