Children's Brain Research Foundation

		A brighter future for children through research, training and education
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New directions in children's brain research

We believe neuroscience research is the key to the realization of our vision: the prevention, early diagnosis, effective treatment and cure of brain disorders in children and adolescents.

Children's Brain Research Foundation (CBRF) is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of children and adolescents who have problems with brain development and function.

Today, more than 20% of children and adolescents have a diagnosable brain disorder. Some of these disorders include depression, developmental disorders such as autism, substance use disorders, learning disabilities, behavior disorders, eating disorders and much more.

The challenges that these children face are enormous:

• Poor school performance and difficulty learning
• Difficulty in making and maintaining friendships
• Difficulty in being parented
• Social stigmatization and discrimination
• Loss of function and productivity
• Inadequate treatment
• Chronic psychiatric disorders and repeated and lengthy hospitalizations
• Victimization
• Differential insurance coverage
• Limited access to activities

Prevalence of brain disorders in children and adolescents*
Anxiety disorders: 12%
Major depressive disorders: 10%
Disruptive disorders: 10.3%
Mental retardation: 3%
Any Disorders: 20.9%

*Surgeon General's Report on Mental Health, 2001

Dedicated to giving these children a chance to reach their fullest potential, CBRF's intent is to take new directions in children's brain research by supporting promising children's brain research and investigators, educating healthcare professionals and promoting public education.

Learn more about the challenges children face by selecting a disorder from the menu below.