May is Mental Health Awareness month. When a child is struggling, or his behavior worries you, it can be hard to know whether you need to reach out to a professional.

Approximately one out of every five children in America has a diagnosable mental health disorder. Mental health problems in young people are associated with outcomes such as suicide, substance use, inability to live independently, justice involvement, school dropout, economic hardship and physical health problems.

Untreated mental health needs among children and youth affect not only the young person and their family, but also schools, communities, workplaces and the nation as a whole. These costs are too high to leave the mental health needs of so many of America's young people unaddressed.

 Childhood mental health and learning disorders are real, common and treatable. You can always discuss mental health issues with your pediatrician. We at Hendersonville Pediatrics are here to help.