Mental Health Is ImportantMental health is how people think, feel, and act as they face life's situations. It affects how people handle stress, relate to one another, and make... moreMental Health Is ImportantMental health is how people think, feel, and act as they face life's situations. It affects how people handle stress, relate to one another, and make decisions. Mental health influences the ways individuals look at themselves, their lives, and others in their lives. Like physical health, mental health is important at every stage of life.All aspects of our lives are affected by our mental health. Caring for and protecting our children is an obligation and is critical to their daily lives and their independence.Children and Adolescents Can Have Serious Mental Health ProblemsLike adults, children and adolescents can have mental health disorders that interfere with the way they think, feel, and act. When untreated, mental health disorders can lead to school failure, family conflicts, drug abuse, violence, and even suicide. Untreated mental health disorders can be very costly to families, communities, and the health care system.In this fact sheet, "Mental Health Problems" for... less