Mental Health

Mental health in childhood includes reaching developmental and emotional milestones, as well as learning healthy social skills and how to cope when there are problems. 

Mental health disorders in children and adolescents are described as serious changes in the way children typically learn, behave, or handle their emotions, causing distress and problems getting through the day. It is estimated that approximately 30% of school aged children will experience a behavioral, mental, or developmental condition in any given year.

This page contains resources for parents, educators, and professionals serving children and youth in the school and community settings. 

Note: links shared that take users beyond the Pennsylvania Department of Education's website to a non-PDE website, organization, product, process, service, manufacturer, or company does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by PDE, and, PDE is not responsible for the content featured on any of the sites or pages referenced.

Help is Available 24/7

ChildLine: 1-800-932-0313

Crisis Text Line: Text PA to 741741

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988

PA Support & Referral Helpline: 1-855-284-2494

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Trevor Project Lifeline for LGBTQ+ Youth: 1-866-488-7386

Visit 211.org