Mental health is as important as physical health to our quality of life. Mental health is not simply the absence of mental illness but also means having the skills necessary to cope with life's challenges. If ignored, mental health problems can interfere with children's learning, development, relationships, and physical health.

One in five U.S. children ages 3–17 has a mental, emotional, behavioral, or developmental disorder, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

There is a great need for mental health professionals to provide the best available culturally appropriate care based on scientific evidence, good clinical expertise, and the unique characteristics of the child.

If you or someone you know needs help or needs to discuss mental concerns, contact:

CALL: 844-4-SAFEIL (723345)
TEXT: SAFE2 (72332)
EMAIL: HELP@Safe2helpil.com
APP: Download Safe2HelpIllinois app

Finding a Mental and Behavioral Health Provider

BEACON

Behavioral Health Care and Ongoing Navigation gives you information about behavioral health services focused on your child's needs. Learn which community-based resources are available near you and state-funded programs your child may be eligible for. Listed services include community mental health centers and other programs. This service can be used by anyone in Illinois.

Crisis and Emergency Resources

IDHS - The Illinois Department of Human Resources 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers 24 hour crisis services. The Myth Busters flyer tells you what happens when you call 988.
Safe2Help Illinois offers students a safe, confidential way to share information that might help prevent suicides, bullying, school violence, or other threats to school safety.
Illinois Chapter of American Academy of Pediatrics - Youth Prevention Suicide programs, education and resources for parents, caregivers and families
Suicide Prevention Resource Center - Courses developed by the Suicide Prevention Resource Center.
The Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 offers a 24/7 crisis connection with the option to call, chat, or text with trained counselors who understand the unique challenges that LGBTQ young people face.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 provides 24/7, free, and confidential support for people in distress and prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones
Military Helpline at 1-888-457-4838 offers a free and confidential 24/7 crisis intervention service that is sensitive to military-specific issues.
Screening, Assessment and Support Service (SASS) is a statewide crisis program for children and youth. SASS provides intensive mental health services for children and youth who may need hospitalization for mental health care – 1-800-345-9049
StopBullying.Gov can provide help now if you or someone you know is being bullied.

Educational Resources for Schools, Students, Families and Communities

Resiliency Toolkit
The ISBE Resiliency Toolkit webpage is an essential resource designed to promote resiliency in safe and supportive school and caregiving environments. The toolkit brings together best practices, reliable information, and trusted external resources to empower users as they identify needs, explore effective strategies, and access additional support.
Learning and Resource Hub

The Center for Childhood Resilience offers a FREE educational resource in support of strategies pertaining to social and emotional learning, trauma-responsive practices, mental health, and healing for both staff and students. The Center for Childhood Resilience is an approved provider for ISBE professional development. NEW information and modules are added regularly. Most Learning and Resource Hub courses offer FREE continuing education credits for Illinois Professional Educator License holders, Illinois licensed social workers, Illinois licensed professional counselors, Illinois licensed psychologists, and Early childhood and out-of-school providers.
Learning Playlists guide you through structured courses and resources that enhance skills and understanding about a specific topic. The playlists are structured to meet your level of readiness. Topics include supporting newcomer students, supporting the LGBTQ+ community, fostering inclusive classrooms, and building tiered support systems.

BEACON
Behavioral Health Care and Ongoing Navigation gives you information about behavioral health services focused on your child's needs. Learn which community-based resources are available near you and state-funded programs your child may be eligible for. Listed services include community mental health centers and other programs. This service can be used by anyone in Illinois.
Young People and BULLYING and Mental Health
Parents, school staff, and other adults in the community can help youngsters prevent bullying by talking about it, building a safe school environment, and creating a community-wide bullying prevention strategy. The site includes resources for What Schools Can Do, What Kids Can Do, and Cyberbullying.

Printable Materials

Legislation and Rules

Student Mental Health Days
PA 102-0321 allows students to take up to five mental or behavioral health days per year. A student is not required to provide a medical note and must be given the opportunity to make up any schoolwork missed during such absences. Following the second mental health day, a student may be referred to the appropriate school personnel.

Ann Marie's Law
PA 102-0276 states that schools must have a current suicide awareness and prevention policy that is publicly posted on their school district's publicly accessible website.
Mental Illness In-Service Training
PA 101-0350 states that licensed school personnel and administrators who work with K-12 students shall be trained to identify the warning signs of mental illness and suicidal behavior in youth and shall be taught appropriate intervention and referral techniques.

Resources

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