Creating Mentally Healthy Communities, Starting with Children

We begin by describing the current state of children’s mental health in Canada, including the high prevalence of disorders, the current public policy response and the need for a new integrated population health strategy. This strategy suggests several complementary approaches to creating mentally healthy communities. We then consider each of these approaches in turn: promoting healthy development for all children; preventing disorders in children at risk; providing treatment for children with disorders; and monitoring outcomes for all children. We conclude by discussing the implications for new investments to create mentally healthier communities in Canada.