P O RT
Reid Ewing accepts a SAMHSA Special Recognition Award for
sharing his experiences with body dysmorphia and encouraging
young adults with similar experiences to seek help.
When children and youth experience mental or substance
use disorders, their families don’t always know where to turn
for answers.
Improving Access
TO BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES AND SUPPORTS
FOR CHILDREN, YOUTH, YOUNG ADULTS,
AND THEIR FAMILIES
6
Finding Help. Finding Hope.
Some families feel forced to navigate complex systems alone.
They are unsure if anyone is listening, or even cares. They
are concerned about being able to afford the help that their
child may need, and that services may be too far away for
them to access.
Finding Help.
Finding Hope.
As the federal agency charged with advancing the behavioral
health of the nation, SAMHSA responds to many of the millions
of families who are seeking referrals for services and supports.
Awareness Day 2016—“Finding Help. Finding Hope.”—focused
on assuring children, youth, and young adults with behavioral
health challenges and their families that they are not alone.
Through three panels, family and youth leaders, clinicians,
educators, and law enforcement professionals identified
challenges and available resources for services and supports.