Children’s mental health has always mattered, however, in today’s world, it feels more urgent than ever. As the Director of Children and Adolescent Services, I see every day how emotional well-being intersects with schools, families, finances, social media, and a broader political climate that can feel overwhelming for both youth and caregivers.

When my son was a teenager, I remember constantly reminding myself that each phase was just that, a phase. He is now 21 years old, and while those years are behind us, the memories remain vivid.

In a culture that involves the constant use of technology, sleep is frequently seen as optional to many. Yet science continues to show that sleep is one of the most powerful tools we have for protecting and strengthening our mental health.