NASW Commends Surgeon General for Report on Children's Mental Health

WASHINGTONThe National Association of Social Workers (NASW) hails Surgeon General David Satcher for bringing a critical health problem to light. In the Report of the Surgeon Generals Conference on Childrens Mental Health, Dr. Satcher includes eight goals with action steps. NASW supports these goals and is committed to help make them a reality.

"Too many children in this country are overlooked and get lost in the system, only to turn up later in the juvenile court system or the child welfare system. Mental health conditions are treatable with appropriate assessment and intervention. The eight goals the Surgeon General has identified will help children, especially those at-risk, receive the care they need in order to be successful," says Toby Weismiller, NASWs Interim Executive Director.

Weismiller adds, "NASW is committed to assist with achieving these goals, especially increased access of mental health care and training of the frontline workers, including social workers, to improve treatment of children with mental health needs."