Use of mental health services in the past 12 months by children aged 4-17 years: United States, 2005-2006.

Data from the National Health Interview Survey. In 2005-2006, 15% of U.S. children aged 4-17 years had parents who talked to a health care provider or school staff about their child's emotional or behavioral difficulties. This included 18% of boys and 11% of girls. Approximately 5% of children were prescribed medication for difficulties with emotions or behavior. A large majority of these children (89%) were prescribed medication for difficulties with concentration, hyperactivity, or impulsivity, which are symptoms of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Approximately 5% of children received "treatment other than medication" for emotional or behavioral difficulties. Most of these children - 60% - received this treatment from a mental health private practice, clinic, or center. Mental health, which includes emotional and behavioral areas of health, is a critical component of child well-being. It may impact children's physical health, relationships, and learning. Appropriate treatment and intervention for children with emotional or behavioral difficulties has been shown to lessen the impact of mental health problems on school achievement, relationships with family members and peers, and risk for substance abuse. Early mental health screening and the availability and use of appropriate mental health services are among the goals of the President's New Freedom Commission on Mental Health.