“When it comes to mental health, we have it all backwards,” asserts Michael Milham, chief science officer for the Child Mind Institute.. “Instead of playing catch-up, we need to be proactive,” A cognitive neuroscientist and child and adolescent psychiatrist, Milham has witnessed first-hand the consequences of untreated mental health issues in children and adolescents.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Half of all adult mental health problems begin before the age of 14 and 75% by age 24, he observes. “Fewer than half the instances of disorder are treated during childhood. By the time adults seek therapy, their problems may have become deeply ingrained and more difficult to address.”
“These conditions are real, common, and treatable,’ says Milham. “Too many children are left to struggle in silence due to lack of resources.”
In his view, ignoring treatable disorders in young people—whether attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, or mood disorders—means missing a crucial opportunity for early intervention.
The treatment deficit is especially pronounced in low- and middle-income countries, where 90% of the world’s children live and access to mental health care is limited. The Child Mind Institute aims to change the situation by promoting early detection and treatment.
Building the Next Generation of Mental Health Professionals
One significant barrier to early intervention is the shortage of mental health professionals specializing in child and adolescent care. “We do not have a sufficient workforce for mental health, and, for children, it’s worse,” acknowledges Milham.
To address the workforce shortfall, the Child Mind Institute has launched a Youth Mental Health Academy to inspire a new, diverse generation of mental health professionals. Currently operating in Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco, the academy recruits high school juniors and seniors for a financially supported 14-month program that includes five weeks of training in mental health science the first summer, mentorship sand worships during the academic year, and a paid field internship in marginalized communities the second summer.
● Educational Workshops cover psychology, neuroscience, and mental health awareness.
● Hands-On Experience provides opportunities to shadow professionals, participate in research projects, and engage in community outreach.
● Mentorship pairs students with experienced mental health practitioners for guidance and support.
In 2023, 152 students enrolled in the Los Angeles-based pilot. This year the program scaled to enroll another 905 students. “The impact has been remarkable,”Milham reports. “In our pilot, we found that the percentage of participants expressing interest in mental health careers jumped from 52% to 76%.”
Throughout the academic year, students continue their learning with monthly programming. The goal is not only to increase the number of mental health professionals but also to build a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities they serve. Plans are underway to expand the program to other cities and, eventually, other countries.
Addressing Internet Addictions Among Vulnerable Youth
One focus of the program is internet addiction, a particular concern among children with pre-existing mental health conditions. “Many parents are more worried about online addiction than they are about substance abuse,” observes Milham. He has treated children spend as many as 15 hours a day online gaming or checking social media while neglecting real-life interactions and basic responsibilities such as schoolwork.
Addiction Essential Reads
“At its worst, internet addiction can be as life-harming as drug addiction,” he warns.
Research indicates that children with depression, anxiety disorders, and autism spectrum disorders, and other mental health conditions are particularly susceptible to problematic technology use, which creates a vicious cycle. Existing mental health issues make them vulnerable to technology abuse, which then exacerbates their mental health challenges.
To tackle the issue, the Child Mind Institute is proactive on several fronts:
● Parental Guidance: Providing resources and workshops to help parents recognize signs of internet addiction and implement healthy digital habits at home.
● Therapeutic Interventions: Developing specialized treatment programs that address both the underlying mental health conditions and the internet addiction.
● Educational Outreach: Collaborating with schools to educate students and teachers about the risks of excessive screen time and to promote digital wellness.
“Between 20% and 30% of parents are deeply concerned about this issue,” says Milham. By raising awareness and providing practical solutions, the institute helps families navigate the complexities of technology use.
A Global Perspective on Child Mental Health
Mental health is a global challenge, and the Child Mind Institute extends its resources to help parts of the world where mental health resources are more limited.
Source: Michael Milham, used with permission
● Sharing Knowledge: Openly sharing research data, and making research findings and educational materials accessible worldwide through their website.
● Building Partnerships: Working with global organizations to develop culturally sensitive mental health programs.
● Training Professionals: Offering training and mentorship to international mental health practitioners to enhance global expertise.
“Addressing mental health is a global challenge that requires a collective effort,” emphasizes Milham. “By sharing resources and collaborating across borders, we can make a significant impact.”
Being proactive in mental health care means more than treating problems as they arise—it means preventing them from taking root. Whether through training the next generation of mental health professionals or equipping parents with tools to manage their child’s technology use, Milham maintains a clear vision: “We must act early to protect the mental well-being of our children. Imagine a world where every child has access to the mental health support they need. It’s not just an ideal—it’s an achievable reality if we work together.”
