The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that half of all mental health issues start by the time a child reaches the age of 14. Good mental health is an essential part of healthy adolescent development; it helps young people build positive social, emotional, thinking and communication skills and behaviors. It also lays the foundation for better mental health and wellbeing later in life.

Tunica County Sheriff's Office stands in support for teens in the community that may suffer from a mental disorder.  Adolescence is a unique and formative time.

 

Mental illnesses can be treated. If you are a child or teen, talk to your parents, school counselor, or health care provider. If you are a parent and need help starting a conversation with your child or teen about mental health, visit MentalHealth.gov's Parents and Caregivers page. If you are unsure where to go for help, ask your pediatrician or family doctor or visit NIMH's Help for Mental Illnesses webpage.

 

It may be helpful for children and teens to save several emergency numbers to their cell phones. The ability to get immediate help for themselves or for a friend can make a difference.

• The phone number for a trusted friend or relative
• The non-emergency number for the local police department
• The Crisis Text Line: 741741
• The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention LifeLine at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).