elevating
mental health

a growing problem

Mental health is the health care crisis of this generation. Suicidal ideation and depression are the number one and number two reasons children are admitted to Dayton Children’s.

Even though Dayton Children’s opened an inpatient mental health unit in July 2019, those 24 beds are not enough to care for the skyrocketing need.

1 in 5 children need care for a mental health issue

10% of high school students have attempted suicide in the past year

50% of all lifetime cases of mental illness begin by the age of 14

suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death

among Ohio children ages 10 to 14.

together we must find a way to do. more.

along the continuum of mental health to change the future for our kids.

donate now

a comprehensive solution

With the help of community partners who share our vision, we are investing in a comprehensive approach focusing on:

  • Prevention and emotional wellbeing
  • Early intervention
  • Outpatient therapy
  • Crisis care
  • Inpatient care

what your support brings

The mental health crisis facing our children and teens can feel overwhelming. It’s tempting to think we can’t make a difference. But we can. The Do. More. campaign is an opportunity to invest in our children and our community’s future with wrap-around services that address every aspect of childhood mental health. Your support will help provide:

1.

More care spaces, including The Mathile Center for Mental Health and Wellness that will provide inpatient, crisis, and outpatient care in one location.

2.

Additional mental health providers who can help meet the growing need.

3.

Prevention programs through The Center for Emotional Wellbeing.

4.

Robust and specialized therapy programs.

5.

New ways to connect children and families to the services they need.

“Mental health is the health care crisis of this generation. Dayton Children’s has been racing to keep up with the demand with added services every year, but the need is overwhelming and continues to grow. We know we must do more. We are fighting for children’s lives.”

– Debbie Feldman, CEO

impact story


do. more. for kids like Emma

A competitive gymnast since age 9, teenager Emma Brun, had been silently struggling with troubling symptoms like black spots in her vision, dizziness, and sudden heart rate spikes. Despite these challenges, she never told her parents and continued to push through, but it was taking a toll on her body and spirit. In February 2021, the added pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic, isolation from friends, and a loss of identity from not being able to compete or train overwhelmed Emma, leading her to attempt suicide. But not all hope was lost.

miracles matter

One of the best ways to keep up to date is to subscribe to our Miracles Matter monthly e-newsletter! We’ll send you a monthly email with patient stories, opportunities to get involved with the hospital, exciting news, and more!

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