Costs for children’s mental health treatment increase by 31% in 5 years

The financial burden on American families caring for a child with a mental health condition has increased significantly in recent years, according to a new study. Between 2017 and 2021, the cost of caring for a child with a mental health condition rose by almost a third, now averaging ,361 more per year compared to families without such children.

In 2021, American families spent an estimated billion on child mental health services, accounting for nearly half (47%) of all child medical spending. This underscores the significant financial impact that pediatric mental health conditions have on the U.S. healthcare system.

The study, led by Theoren Loo, was published in the peer-reviewed journal JAMA Network Open on March 11. These findings highlight the growing financial challenges faced by families of children with mental health conditions and the need for increased support and resources in this area.