What Parents Need to Know
About Mental Health

More than ever, our youth are struggling with mental health issues. It seems that many do not know where to turn for help and it’s our mission to change that. Below are helpful links to learn more about mental health and how to discuss mental health challenges with your child/teen. If your child is in a true crisis, please call Valley Creek Crisis Center at 610-280-3270.

Helpful Links:

• The Teen Brain: 7 Things to Know (NIH)

• Learning to Help Your Child & Your Family (NAMI)

• What to Do If Your Child Is In Crisis (NAMI)

• Tips for Talking With and Helping Children and Youth Cope After a Disaster or Traumatic Event (SAMHSA)

• Parents Guide to Getting Good Care (Child Mind Institute)

• Adolescent Depression, What Parents Can Do to Help (AAP)

Local & National Resources:

SAMHSA’s National Helpline 1-800-662-HELP (4357) SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.

Crisis Text Line 741741 Need support? Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 crisis counseling. We’re here for you.

Valley Creek Crisis Center 610-280-3270 Valley Creek Crisis Center is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health or emotional crisis in Chester County, please contact us.

Chester County Warm Line 1-866-846-2722 If you are feeling lonely, depressed or anxious and just want to talk, call Chester County’s warm line. This line is manned by trained individuals in recovery.

Chester County Suicide Prevention Task Force

A Path to Hope - Local Mental Health Resources