How the Saint Louis Crisis Nursery Supports Children’s Mental Health

May is Children’s Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to recognize the critical importance of nurturing the mental well-being of the youngest members of our community. At the Saint Louis Crisis Nursery, we know that the positive mental health of our children is vital in ensuring that every child has the opportunity to safely grow and thrive.

A Growing Crisis Among Children

The mental health of children and youth is in a state of crisis. Even before the pandemic, rates of childhood depression were on the rise. A national study by the Health Resources and Services Administration revealed a 27% increase in depression diagnoses among children ages 3-17 between 2016 and 2020. A report from the American Academy of Pediatrics found that 16% of children under the age of six experience clinically significant mental health challenges, often impacting their ability to succeed at home, in school, and in relationships.

However, there is good news. Young children have developing brains, and with early intervention and the consistent support of nurturing adults, they have the capacity to heal and thrive.

How the Crisis Nursery Supports Children’s Mental Health

At the Crisis Nursery, we serve many children impacted by chronic stress and trauma. That’s why our approach goes beyond meeting basic needs. We incorporate nurturing, therapeutic care into every child’s stay at the Nursery.

Each day is structured with developmentally appropriate, therapeutic activities that promote safe feeling expression, develop social skills, and increase positive self-esteem. Sometimes that looks like reading a book about feelings and discussing healthy ways to express emotions; other times, it’s as simple as playing a game of catch while talking about sharing and teamwork. Everything that we do at the Nursery is guided by our trauma-responsive approach, which focuses on ensuring safety, building trust, offering choices and collaboration, and empowering the children and families in our care.

Art, Play & Music Therapy to Help Children Heal

For children ages three and older, our team offers Art, Play, and Music Therapy – effective, evidence-based approaches that provide children a safe space to explore their emotions and experiences in creative and accessible ways.

Led by our Registered Art Therapist, Licensed Play Therapist, and Board-Certified Music Therapist, these sessions use tools like therapeutic books and games, paint and clay, and musical instruments to help children:

Identify and regulate feelings

Process grief and trauma

Strengthen coping skills

Build self-esteem and resilience

When further support is needed, our staff connect families to trusted community partners for ongoing mental health services.

A Shared Vision for Children’s Well-Being

At the Crisis Nursery, we are hopeful for a world where all children can grow and thrive in safety. This month, and every month, we remain committed to promoting positive mental health outcomes for the children that we serve.

Continue to explore our programs and learn how we’re making a difference: www.crisisnurserykids.org/programs