By Mayra Rosendo Family Advocate, VNS Health  Bronx Voice  September 8, 2025 BRONX - One of the great joys of being a parent is watching your child grow, learn, and find their place in the world. It all happens so fast. From taking pictures on their first day of pre-school to hearing them read aloud for the first time, every moment is fleeting—and precious. But with growth can come new challenges, including those affecting mental well-being. This situation is surprisingly common, with 15% of NYC kids reporting at least one mental health diagnosis. School, peers, social media, and broader influences like poverty, discrimination, and community violence can all play a role. As I’ve experienced with my own children, parents often put their child’s needs first—frequently ahead of their own. When a child shows changes in behavior or receives a diagnosis, the sense of responsibility can feel overwhelming for parents. My own first response was to find help and do whatever ...