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Health/Mental Health Issues

NCJ Number
211480
Date Published
2005
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This paper presents brief descriptions of the work of 22 national organizations that provide information and services designed to foster the physical and mental health of children and families.
Abstract
The American Academy of Pediatrics, which has a membership of medical professions who work with children, produces professional training materials and public education materials on child maltreatment, and proposes policy and legislative recommendations in this area. The American Association of Children's Residential Centers brings professionals together to promote knowledge about therapeutic living environments for children and adolescents with behavioral health disorders. The Center for Substance Abuse Treatment is committed to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by alcohol and drug abuse; and the Chadwick Center for Children and Families protects children and strengthens families through prevention, treatment, education, public policy advocacy, and research in the areas of child maltreatment and family violence. Children's Health Care Is a Legal Duty, Inc., has a mission to protect children from abusive religious and cultural practices; and the Maternal and Child Health Bureau provides national leadership in partnership with States, communities, private agencies, and families in strengthening the material and child health infrastructure. The National Association of Children’s Hospitals and Related Institutions promotes the health and well-being of children and their families through support for children's hospitals and health systems. These are just a few examples of the types of work being done by various national organizations on behalf of children and their families. Other organizations mentioned conduct research on issues related to the health of children and families, focus on eliminating birth defects caused by alcohol consumption during pregnancy, promote information sharing on minority health issues, encourage dentists' reporting of child maltreatment, and address the prevention of shaken baby syndrome.