Even for those of us in the mental health profession, this has to be alarming.
In looking at data from 2005-2011, the CDC has recently calculated that up to 20% of children experience some type of mental disorder each year.
An estimated $247 million is spent on children’s mental health each year.
The CDC study is thought to be the most comprehensive study of children’s mental health. It draws from a number of ongoing federal studies.
Nearly 7% of children are diagnosed with ADHD annually.
Other major contributors were depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems.
This follows a recent announcement from the CDC suggesting that 1 in 50 school children suffer from autism.
Here’s the NIH’s FAQ page for parents who suspect that their child may be suffering from a mental disorder.
Hat tip to New Scientist.
