I remember when I first started to wonder if my son had a mental health issue. He was really young and his doctors thought I was crazy for even bringing it up. My friends told me to get him checked out and used scary and confusing words like assessments, IEP, State services, and Medicaid. I had no idea where to start or who to call. More than once I found myself awake late into the night pouring over web pages looking for answers, questions to ask, and people I could call to get the process started. I’m not sure I ever felt more alone than I did at those moments.
The Idaho Parent Network for Children’s Mental Health was created by parents who want you to know you are not alone on this journey. They want you to have access to other families who understand your story and use your local systems. They also want you to join them in making the system better for everyone.
So this is what I will say to you right now…You are not alone. There are thousands of parents in the State of Idaho (and the world) who are at this very moment doing the same things you are doing. They are searching for answers to help their children with their mental health needs and and in doing so feel like they are clearing a path through the rain forest with a pair of dull kitchen scissors. This journey is not easy, but there are thousands of us walking together and we can help you along the way.
Together, we can do this.
Really, we can.
So even if you find yourself late at night, sitting in front of your computer wearing your bunny slippers and crying because you don’t know what to do next, take heart. We are right there with you. Use this website to answer questions and find new options. Use us to understand new programs and get connected with resources in your area. Let us remind you that you are not alone, because you are part of the Parent Network, and together our voices are strong!