Investing in early childhood mental health support systems is not just a social priority, but an economic necessity: MP

Dakshina Kannada MP Captain Brijesh Chowta has urged the Central Government to take a proactive approach in integrating mental health awareness and support into early childhood care. By this, no child will be left behind at the start of the learning journey.

Raising the issue of mental health and early learning challenges among children in the Lok Sabha under Rule 377 on March 30, the MP cited data that showed one in seven adolescents face mental health issues, and around 8% of children suffer from diagnosable mental disorders. Around 85% of brain development takes place before the age of six, making early childhood the most critical stage for shaping cognitive and emotional development. For a child, this period laid the foundation for language, behaviour, and learning abilities. Timely support during these years can prevent long-term challenges and improve outcomes across the education system.