How do grants support services for young people with mental health disorders?
Strengthening mental health support systems for youth
Challenge
One in every 4 to 5 youth in the general population have a mental disorder, such as a mood disorder, anxiety, or behavior disorder. Many of these young people have experienced trauma, homelessness, attempted suicide, or been arrested.
The Comprehensive Community Mental Health Services for Children and their Families Program, also referred to as the Children’s Mental Health Initiative (CMHI), supports programs for young people with serious emotional disturbances and their families. Since 2013, CMHI has awarded 93 new system of care (SOC) grants to support expansion and sustainability of services for these young people and their families.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), which oversees CMHI, asked Westat to help evaluate the impact of the grants.
