The goal of this position is to identify the needs of children suffering with depression, anxiety, and other mental illness before these conditions lead to tragedy. Suicide is the third leading cause of death in children ages 15-24, and homicide is the second leading cause. School violence, suicide, and substance abuse are destroying too many families. The stigma around mental health care has prevented many children from getting much ended help. This would normalize evaluation and treatment and may reduce preventable tragedies. Mental health care needs to be included in all insurance provisions.



