AACAP Celebrates National Month of the Military Child
WASHINGTON DC, April 3, 2023 – The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) joins our nation in celebrating military children to honor the countless sacrifices they make as a result of their parent's service.
Established in 1986 by Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger, the National Month of the Military Child is a time to acknowledge the resilience and strength of military children who face numerous stressors such as frequent relocations, parental separation, and exposure to traumatic events. These stressors can have significant impacts on the mental health and well-being of military children, making it critical to provide them with specialized support and resources. As child and adolescent psychiatrists, we understand the importance of promoting mental health and well-being for all children, including military children.
"Recognizing the National Month of the Military Child is critical in raising awareness of the unique challenges military children and their families face. It is an opportunity to celebrate their strength, resilience, and the sacrifices they make," says Monica Ormeno, DO, co-Chair of AACAP's Military Issues Committee.
AACAP's Military Issues Committee serves as a forum to discuss issues specific to the military and Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists. The group also raises military-specific concerns to AACAP for integration and consideration while highlighting programs, resources, and services for military children. By celebrating the National Month of the Military Child, we can raise awareness about the unique challenges that military children and their families face and promote policies and resources that support their mental health and well-being. As child and adolescent psychiatrists, we stand in support of military families and are committed to providing them with the specialized care and support they need.
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The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry promotes the healthy development of children, adolescents, and families through advocacy, education, and research. Child and adolescent psychiatrists are the leading physician authority on children’s mental health. For more information, please visit www.aacap.org