Mental Health
Expanding Illinois’ Statewide Mental Health Programs and Services Together
ICAAP is collaborating with the Illinois Department of Public Health, Office of Women’s Health, and Family Services (IDPH, OWHFS), Illinois Title V Maternal and Child Health Program (IL Title V), and Illinois DocAssist (IDA) to expand Illinois’ existing statewide mental health programs and services.
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Pediatrics Mental Health Community
Sign Up for Bi-Monthly Newsletters Designed to Build Capacity
As part of our mission to support pediatricians and all clinicians working with children in Illinois, we’ve developed a newsletter that we will send every two months to share key updates directly to your inbox.
Newsletter Archive: August 2025, June 2025, April 2025, Feb. 2025
Get Crucial Updates On:
- CE/CME Opportunities
- Mental Health Resources & Guidance
- Educational Webinars
- Upcoming Events
- Data & Trends in Illinois
- State & Partner Initiatives
2025
Pediatric Mental Health Conference
On May 15th, over 100 professionals dedicated to supporting pediatric mental health came together in Champaign, IL, for a day of learning. Here are the presentations that were given.
The Children’s Behavioral Health Transformation
Presented By: Dana Weiner, PhD
From Screening to Making the Diagnosis: Tips from a General Pediatrician
Presented by: Rachel K. Levin, MD
Understanding and Supporting Transitions Between the Levels of Care: OPs, IOPs, PHPs, IPs, and More
Presented By: Caitlin Engelhard, MD, PhD
Level 2 Psychopharmacology & Tougher Situations: What to do When First-Line Treatment Has Failed
Presented By: Diane M. Misch, MD, FAPA; Rhapsody Mason, LCSW; Elizabeth Charney, MD
Increasing the Volume of Consultation Services in Illinois
This expansion primarily focuses on increasing the volume of consultation services provided across the State, providing a multitude of mental health education and training opportunities to pediatricians and other primary health care professionals, and developing a stronger network of mental health resources and referrals accessible to providers serving pediatric patients and their families.
What's Happening in Illinois
Efforts to Strengthen Children’s Mental Health Care in Illinois
In November 2022, the Administration of Governor JB Pritzker announced it is launching a new state program designed to help pediatricians and other providers meet children’s mental health needs by strengthening mental health services in emergency departments and schools. The new program will focus on increasing the volume of consultation services provided across the state, providing a multitude of mental health education and training opportunities to physicians and health care professionals, and strengthening the network of mental health resources and referrals accessible to providers and their patients. It will also explore the feasibility of direct provider-patient telehealth service programs.
IL Blueprint for Transformation - A Vision for Improved Behavioral Healthcare for Illinois Children
The Governor empowered the Transformation Initiative to analyze systemic problems and, in collaboration with the six child-serving State agencies, to develop creative, evidence-driven solutions in order to achieve five goals:
- Adjust capacity—so that there are enough of the services we need
- Streamline processes—so that services can be easily accessed
- Intervene earlier—so that acute crises can be prevented
- Increase accountability—so that there is transparency in service delivery
- Develop agility—so that systems can be responsive to the changing needs of the youth population
Resources for Patients and Families
Managing Anxiety
ICAAP and subject matter experts developed a list of resources on Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other tools clinicians can share with patients who have anxiety. These documents offer information on understanding CBT, as well as books and applications that can support management of anxiety and related challenges. The apps mentioned are shared for informational purposes only and do not imply endorsement.
CBT and Relaxation Techniques
Understanding CBT skills such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and mindfulness
Apps for Kids and Teens
Evidence-based tools for mindfulness, emotional regulation, CBT strategies, and mood tracking, organized by age group
Books and Workbooks List
Curated titles for children, teens, and parents that reinforce CBT strategies and provide interactive approaches to managing worry, anger, and stress
Grief Resources
We are please to introduce this set of grief flyers! Two flyers empower pediatric health professionals by providing step-by-step information on how they can confidently help patients and their families which encourages healthy healing after the loss of a child or sibling. Simply download the zip file to print or share with families or health professionals!
Mental Health
Resources for
Clinicians
AAP Promoting Optimal Development — Screening for Mental Health, Emotional, and Behavioral Problems
Pediatricians are in the best position to spot mental, emotional and behavioral concerns and intervene early, giving children their best chance to thrive. A new clinical report, published in the August 2025 edition of Pediatrics, provides guidance on screening children for such concerns beginning in the first year of life and beyond.
Read the Clinical Report Latest News
AAP Policy Statement & Technical Report
Health Supervision for Children and Youth With Mental and Behavioral Health Emergencies
The American Academy of Pediatrics seeks to curb prolonged emergency department stays and boarding, which negatively affect patient care and emergency operations, in a new policy statement and technical report published in the September 2023 issue of Pediatrics. The goal of the literature is to highlight strategies, resources, and recommendations for improving emergency care delivery for pediatric mental and behavioral health. Explore more using the links below.
AAP Mental Health Initiatives
Additional Mental Health Resources
Review these resources for more information about mental health concerns, trauma informed care and supporting healthy mental development.
ICAAP Mental Health Resources
Suicide Prevention
Explore resources and information for guidance on how to decrease pediatric suicide and effectively work with families and communities on this rising issue.
Mental Health Awareness
Download the Mental Health Awareness Month social media campaign to encourage open conversations about safe ways to seek help for mental health.
Suicide Prevention Ambassadors
The AAP and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) are partnering to establish a community of Suicide Prevention Ambassadors across the United States and Puerto Rico. Chapter ambassadors will be trained in strategies described in the Blueprint for Youth Suicide Prevention and work together to provide leadership and subject matter expertise, engage community members, and support chapter activities related to youth suicide prevention.
Meet our ICAAP Ambassador:
- Nabil Abou Baker, MD, FAAP - University of Chicago
ICAAP work closely with Phil Martinez, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention IL Chapter.
Mental Health Resources for Families
If you have questions about the mental health and wellbeing of your infant, child, or teenage, do not hesitate to reach out to your regular pediatrician for more guidance. They are always happy to lend an ear and help you find the right pathway for your family! You can also learn more about infant and child mental health with these helpful resources from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
These resources share helpful tips and skills to:
- Manage anxiety
- Manage depression or sadness
- Manage disruptive or aggressive behavior
- Manage inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity
Learn more about mental health topics like:
- Emotional wellness
- Mental health concerns
- Promoting social emotional health
- Promoting resilience
BEACON
Your Direct Connection to Behavioral Health Resources for Your Child
It’s common for young people to struggle with behavioral and/or mental health challenges. Please know you are not alone, and neither is your child. BEACON is here to help. Get information about behavioral health services focused on your child’s needs, learn about community-based resources available near you, and explore state-funded programs.