NEGATIVE LIFE EVENTS, SOCIAL DETERMINANTS, AND SERVICE DELIVERY FOR CHILDREN WHO HAVE DISABILITIES AND MENTAL HEALTH CONCERNS
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Date
2024
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Abstract
This study begins the process of examining negative life events, social
determinants of health, and the parents’ familiarity with mental health services
concerning children with dual diagnoses. Using a state-wide survey in the state of
Tennessee, this study examined 120 parents with children with dual diagnoses to
understand what mental health services exist, the barriers that exist in accessing the
services, and the parent’s overall familiarity with mental health services. Results
indicated that 72.7% of children with dual diagnoses faced at least 1 negative life event in
the last 12 months. Parents expressed less confidence in accessing education, healthcare,
and mental health services, which are crucial for children with dual diagnoses.
Additionally, the study revealed that parents are less familiar with child-based services
and family-based services. It was also found that parents who were not married,
unemployed, spoke Spanish, had lower levels of education, or had poor mental health
were less likely to be familiar with mental health services. In addition, low-to-medium
correlations were found between social determinants of health and the parent’s familiarity
with mental health services. Given its results, it’s important to further educate parents on
what mental health services exist for their children. In addition, it is crucial to train
mental health professionals to address social determinants of health to promote equitable
mental health outcomes is crucial.
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Keywords
negative life events, adverse childhood experiences, social determinants of health, mental health, behavioral health, psychological services, services, children with disabilities