Mental Health Impacts Among Children Children are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues, with an estimated 13% of the global burden of disease attributable to neuropsychiatric disorders in individuals aged 5-14 years (WHO, 2021). Anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders can impede learning, social development, and future well-being. Early intervention is crucial, as mental health conditions often begin in childhood and can persist into adulthood if left unaddressed. Understanding Brain Development and Early Experiences Research shows that brain development is shaped by early childhood experiences, including exposure to stress and trauma. Such experiences influence our brain architecture, affecting behavior, decision-making, and risk-taking. This understanding helps explain how parents "parent," how children and teens behave, and why some may engage in risky behaviors. Recognizing these factors underscores the importance of supportive environments and targeted interventions during critical developmental periods. Mental Health Challenges Among Immigrants Immigrants face unique mental health risks due to factors such as acculturation stress, language barriers, discrimination, and trauma related to migration experiences. Studies indicate that immigrant populations are at increased risk for depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For example, a 2018 study in the U.S. found that immigrant adults reported higher rates of psychological distress compared to native-born populations, with children and youth also experiencing elevated levels of anxiety and depression.
Why It Matters Addressing mental health in children and immigrant populations is vital for fostering resilient communities. Tailored programs, culturally competent care, and early intervention can significantly reduce long-term health disparities and improve quality of life. In an effort of Public Health Behavior Solutions International, our partners continue to promote psychological and emotional well-being by providing resources to parents and caregivers, including resources for professionals. The following resources include resources, strategies for managing emotions, coping skills, expressive journaling, relationship building, and addressing issues such as child abuse and neglect, child sexual abuse, physical health, healthy eating, and sleep quality.
In summary:
World Mental Health Day serves as a reminder of the critical need to prioritize mental health across all populations—especially vulnerable groups like children and immigrants—to promote healthier, more equitable societies. Our insights are supported by research from Public Health Behavior Solutions International, along with the impactful programs and resources provided by our partners at Pro Consumer Safety International. Together, these efforts aim to foster resilience, emotional well-being, and healthier communities worldwide.
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Halloween is a cherished time of year, filled with festive decorations, creative costumes, and exciting trick-or-treating adventures. For children and teens, Halloween night is often the highlight of the season, offering opportunities for fun and community bonding. However, as much as Halloween is a time for celebration, it also presents safety challenges that families should be aware of. Common injuries during this period include cuts and lacerations from pumpkin carving and pedestrian-related accidents during trick-or-treating, particularly during twilight hours when visibility is reduced.
Halloween Safety and AwarenessIn addition to the Halloween Safety webpage, the following evidence-based Halloween safety materials are also available for download, for organizations, schools, law enforcement, hospitals, community centers, libraries, etc., to help increase public awareness. References
Pro Car Seat Safety Celebrates 10 Years of Saving Lives During Child Passenger Safety Week
Los Angeles, CA — September 21, 2025 — This week, Pro Car Seat Safety proudly marks a decade of dedicated service in advancing child passenger safety and public health education. To coincide with Child Passenger Safety Week (September 21-27), the organization is celebrating ten years of impacting families, caregivers, and communities across the United States. Since its founding in April 2015, Pro Car Seat Safety has trained over 30,000 parents and caregivers, reached more than 26,000 children, and provided vital hands-on installation, education, and professional training. As a NHTSA-certified mobile service, the organization has expanded its reach from Southern California to nationwide and internationally, incorporating innovative virtual programs based on evidence-based Behavioral Skills Training (BST). "Celebrating this milestone during Child Passenger Safety Week underscores our unwavering commitment to protecting children on every journey," said Dr. James DeCarli, Founder and Owner of Pro Car Seat Safety. "Over the past ten years, our team has worked tirelessly to educate, empower, and save lives — and we look forward to continuing this vital mission for many more years to come." To support families nationwide, since 2018, Pro Car Seat Safety offers a National Telehealth Car Seat Call Center—available for virtual consultations and personalized guidance. Families and caregivers can connect with our certified technicians by visiting https://www.procarseatsafety.com/callcenter.html or calling: (323) 491-6197 Throughout the week, Pro Car Seat Safety will share stories of families impacted, highlight new initiatives, and reaffirm its dedication to accessible, evidence-based safety education. The organization also invites community partners, healthcare providers, and families to join in celebrating this achievement and to continue prioritizing child passenger safety. Learn more about our 10-year journey and impact by visiting our dedicated anniversary page at https://www.procarseatsafety.com/anniversary.html. About Pro Car Seat Safety: Pro Car Seat Safety is a leading provider of child passenger safety services, training, and education dedicated to reducing injuries and saving lives through evidence-based practices and community outreach. For more information, visit https://www.procarseatsafety.com or contact Dr. James (Jim) DeCarli by email or at 323-491-6197. News Brief: Help Your Child Cope with Stress Through Daily Expressive Journaling If your child has been exposed to stress within your family, finding healthy ways to process their feelings is essential. A simple yet powerful tool--daily expressive journaling—can make a significant difference. Encouraging your child to write or draw for just 15 to 20 minutes each day provides a safe, calming space for them to express emotions, reduce anxiety, and build resilience.
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expecting? protect your baby from the start - learn how to safely install and use your car seat6/25/2025
Start Early — Prepare Before Your Baby Arrives Timing is everything. We recommend having your appointment scheduled by your 34th week. This gives you ample time to learn, practice, and troubleshoot, so you can focus on welcoming your baby with peace of mind. Guiding You Through The Process Whether you're just considering learning about car seat safety, knowing what kind of car seat, or ready to master the installation, we help guide you through each stage of the process, ensuring you're fully prepared. Our Mobile Service Offers Expecting Parents:
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AuthorDr. DeCarli is an injury and neuroepidemiologist with over 15 years of public health expertise. He is the founder of Pro Consumer Safety and Public Health Behavior Solutions, focusing on behavioral interventions to reduce childhood injuries and improve health globally. He provides car seat safety training locally and nationwide via the Telehealth Car Seat Call Center, and regularly presents at news interviews, and national and international conferences. An educator and leader, he teaches courses on parenting, child development, and health promotion. With degrees from University of Southern California, George Washington University, and University of Oxford, and recent induction into the Delta Omega Honor Society, he is dedicated to advancing safer, healthier environments for children and communities worldwide. Archives
October 2025
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