I am a parent from Georgia, USA, who for 5 years, has experienced the heartbreak of witnessing my child with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder being repeatedly denied vital mental health care. I have seen my child's behavior grow increasingly concerning, becoming more unruly with time.

Children suffering like my child is not an isolated issue. It's an epidemic. It is estimated that ODD, a pattern of angry/irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behavior, or vindictiveness, affects 1-16% of all school-age children (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Yet, support systems and policies that should help are woefully inadequate.

Lack of proper mental health support for these children doesn't just harm the children themselves but also extends to families and communities. And more harrowing is the fact that without support, many of these kids could develop more severe mental health conditions in adolescence and adulthood.

Healthcare should be a right, not a privilege, and no child should be denied of care, especially not children suffering from mental health disorders like ODD. Thus, we implore the Georgia state government and medical insurance providers to review and establish better mental health policies for children. Policies that ensure access to affordable and appropriate treatment promptly.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for thousands of children denied access to mental health care due to bureaucratic hindrances and red tape. Don't let them suffer in silence; sign now to bring about the change these children desperately need.