More people are seeking mental health care, and that is adding to already long waitlists. Among the providers that keep waitlists, average wait times are three months, but often longer for kids. Excessive wait times can deter kids from actually getting into treatment and sticking with it. In fact, those who have a long wait are more likely to drop out of therapy when compared to those who did not have a long wait.
What To Do While You Wait
OCMH gathered an expert panel to discuss what parents and families can do while they wait for children's mental health services. Panelists included a therapist, pediatrician, school-based mental health professional, and a lived experience parent. They offer advice for what parents/families can do at the doctor's office, for therapy, at school, and in the family's home.
See excerpts of the handout below - perfect for sharing on social media and in newsletters.
Additional Resources
Handling a child’s mental health problem while
you wait to see a professional can be frustrating and exhausting. The resources below may help relieve stress by knowing what to expect and
learning how to cope with any anxieties around the process.
Getting Started:
What To Know About Therapy: | Everyday Tools For Families: Interactive Websites for Young People:
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