American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

07/30/2026

Researchers are just beginning to connect the dots on early exposure to gambling-like features in video games with addictive behaviors later in life. One thing is clear though: kids are getting hooked.

For more on the warning signs of unhealthy gambling behavior in kids and teens, check out our Facts for Families resource "Online Gambling, Video Games, and Kids." https://bit.ly/4fR4aq6

The mechanics of many games on the platform are nearly identical to those of slot machines and sports-betting apps.

07/28/2026

AACAP members spent the last several days in Puerto Rico attending and presenting at The National Medical Association's 2026 Annual Convention & Scientific Assembly.

Throughout the meeting, our team helped elevate conversations around children’s mental health, the impact of social determinants on well-being, and the importance of equitable access to care for youth and families.

Safe travels home, everyone! 🌴✈

07/22/2026

Did you know? Nearly one-third of child and adolescent psychiatrists in the United States are international medical graduates (IMGs).

Research shows that both U.S.- and foreign-born IMGs are more likely to practice in lower-income rural and urban communities, helping expand access to mental health care where it is needed most.

📖 Read their stories in our special showcase and learn how IMGs are improving minority mental health care: https://bit.ly/3RxYA3s

07/17/2026

Summer holidays are now in full swing, and some parents might be wondering whether their children should take a break from psychiatric medications. But unpredictable schedules, new environments, and other stressors can all be extra challenging for children with mental health concerns.

Before stopping any medications, parents should schedule a conversation with their child's physician to discuss the pros and cons of discontinuing or changing treatment.

For more information, AACAP, in partnership with the American Psychiatric Association, has developed Parents’ Medication Guides to help individuals make informed decisions about treating mental disorders in children and adolescents.
https://bit.ly/4t7qWOQ

07/16/2026

Congratulations, Dr. Porter! A well-deserved honor for your commitment to improving access to behavioral health services for children and adolescents, particularly in underserved and rural communities. We are lucky to have you as part of the AACAP community!

07/14/2026

A proposed rule from the White House Office of Management and Budget would fundamentally alter scientific research in this country.

On behalf of AACAP’s 11,000+ members, President John T. Walkup, MD, submitted comments opposing this rule, citing the urgent mental health needs of children and adolescents who are depending on continued scientific progress to improve diagnosis and treatment.

Read Dr. Walkup's official comments here: https://bit.ly/4fxu0QF

07/08/2026

Today is "Be a Kid Again Day," and we hope you're celebrating with a scooter race, a LEGO challenge, or just a good book - shared, of course, with the kiddo in your life.

Making time for play is a key part of supporting your child's emotional well-being and mental health. So get out there and play!

07/01/2026

Today marks the beginning of National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to confront the persistent barriers that many minority communities face in accessing mental healthcare.

At AACAP, we are dedicated to advancing equitable access to high-quality, culturally responsive mental healthcare for all children, adolescents, and their families. That mission begins with a strong, diverse workforce that reflects and understands the experiences, perspectives, and unique mental health needs of children and families from historically underserved and minority communities.

06/29/2026

LGBTQ+ youth often face stigma, discrimination, and minority stress that can significantly affect mental health. As physicians, we can create welcoming and inclusive clinical environments, advocate for family well-being, strengthen protective factors and resilience, and deliver evidence-based, family-centered care.

It really matters.

Happy , everyone. ❤️

06/26/2026

Parents taking their kids to the movies this summer are likely to see some familiar faces. But this time, talking toys Woody, Jessie, and Buzz are joined by a new friend - a tablet named Lilypad.

The newest Toy Story film shines a light on one of the biggest issues in modern parenting: how to manage screen time.

One of the most important things families can do is sit down and discuss device use and screen media together. Our "Screen Time for Children" Facts for Families provides suggestions for doing just that.

Learn more: https://bit.ly/4uVtRuX