Mental Illness And Its Effect On Children

Mental illness has become a major public health issue in our society. It is estimated that mental illness will affect 25% of us at some time in our lives. Many children will grow up with a parent or relative, who at some point, will have a mental illness that will affect the family as a whole. Although most of these illnesses may be mild and short lived, they will have adverse effects on the children of that family. The children may become withdrawn and also find it difficult to concentrate on their school work. They may have to look after a sick parent or take care of younger brothers and sisters. They may be worried or ashamed of their parent's or family member's illness or behavior. There is also evidence that links parental mental illness to the mistreatment of children. I had an uncle who suffered from a bipolar disorder for most of my childhood. I can remember being afraid of him because I couldn't understand why or how his moods and personality would change so drastically. Mental illness in the United States is quite high compared to other countries. In the United States the only people really getting the proper treatment are those with the most money. Compared to Canada, Chile, Germany, and the Netherlands, the US has the lowest rate of treatment for mental illness. Canada is said to be the best country to live in for receiving benefits of their public services. As educators, care givers, and advocates for children, I think that it is very important for us to be able to interact with the families of the children we serve. Therefore we must be prepared to offer help or provide resources to families that will help them be more successful in the family life and healthy development of their children.

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Royal College of Psychiatrists. (2004). Parents with mental illness:the problems for children. Mental Health and Growing Up Factsheet. Retrieved from www.rcpsych.ac.uk.