Representing more than 200 children’s hospitals and 77,000 physicians, the Children’s Hospital Association (CHA), American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists (AACAP) have launched Sound the Alarm for Kids urging Congress to enact legislation and increase funding to address a national mental health emergency in children and teens.

As health professionals dedicated to the care of children and adolescents, we have witnessed soaring rates of mental health challenges among children, adolescents, and their families over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, exacerbating the situation that existed prior to the pandemic.

For nearly two years, the COVID-19 pandemic has put tremendous strain on our nation, including our youth. While children ages five and older can now be vaccinated and feel more protected against the virus, the reality is that the mental health impact of the pandemic will continue to plague kids and teens well into the future.