Critical Insights: Children’s Behavioral Health Needs in Barnstable County
Today, the final findings from the Children’s Behavioral Health Baseline Needs Assessment were presented by Health Resources in Action (HRiA) at the Barnstable County Board of Regional Commissioners’ meeting. Funded through ARPA and conducted from June 2023 to August 2024, the study highlights critical concerns for youth behavioral health in our region.
Key findings reveal a rise in anxiety and depression among children, with symptoms appearing at younger ages. While 90% of parents sought help for their children, a quarter faced challenges accessing services, and half reported limited success. The study points to a lack of school-based mental health support and long waitlists for after-school programs, emphasizing the need for more recreational opportunities.
To address these gaps, recommendations include:
- Developing an online resource registry
- Increasing the number of school-based counselors
- Tackling language and cultural barriers in service delivery
Explore the full report and presentation through the links below.
