What is Behavioral Health?
“In the context of early childhood, our primary focus is on promoting the healthy social and emotional development of young children (also referred to as early childhood mental health), as well as strategies to address social, emotional, and behavioral challenges that young children experience. Promoting early childhood mental health means supporting children as they learn to express and regulate emotions, form trusting relationships, and explore and learn – all within the context of their family, culture, and community.” (Office of Early Childhood Development)
“Behavioral health includes the promotion of mental health, resilience, and well-being; the prevention, early identification, and the treatment of mental illness and substance use disorders; and support for those who experience and/or are in recovery from these conditions, along with their families and communities.”
Why is Behavioral Health Important?
Addressing and treating behavioral health in the early years of a child’s life is important to their long-term well-being and development. Nurturing children’s mental and emotional health creates a strong foundation for their growth. Leaving behavioral health issues unaddressed can lead to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Treating these issues early reduces the likelihood that a child will experience adverse impacts. Making sure resources like these are available to schools and families is imperative to the well-being of children and families.
How can you advocate?
Contact Legislators and Congress Members.
If you or someone you know faces challenges due to behavioral health issues, you can make a difference! Use the links below to search for your legislators and congress members. Contacting these individuals and advocating for behavioral support in our schools and communities is a way to facilitate change and strengthen PA’s Early Childhood Education sector.
Two of the main issues for our youngest children who are in critical periods of their social emotional development include the lack of availability of services for children under five, and then when a child is determined eligible, there is a long wait list for services to begin supporting the child in the childcare setting. This impacts not only the child’s development, but the entire family’s well-being during challenging times. Be sure to advocate for more availability and shorter waitlists for behavior and mental health services for our very youngest so we can intervene early when needed and have lifelong positive impacts!
Find Your Members in the U.S. Congress | Congress.gov | Library of Congress
Find Your Legislator – PA General Assembly (state.pa.us)
Share resources.
Below are resources including more information on behavioral health and where to access support. Share these will friends and family that could benefit!
A Guide to Behavioral Health Services for Children, Adolescents, & Families, Montgomery County, PA
