Langill D, Ingargiola P, Schwartz A, Kutyla T. 2005. In harm's way: Aiding children exposed to trauma. Washington, DC: Grantmakers in Health, 30 pp. (Issue brief no. 23) Annotation: This issue brief synthesizes key points from a day-long dialogue on the role of philanthropy in meeting the needs of children exposed to trauma, both emotional and physical. The dialogue, convened by Grantmakers in Health, was held on May 4, 2005, and included grantmakers, researchers, and policymakers. The issue brief, which includes an executive summary, focuses on the needs of children exposed to trauma, strategies for eary identification and intervention, and ensuring the provision of timely and appropriate services to them and their caregivers. The brief provides (1) an overview of childhood trauma, including the prevalence and causes; (2) an explanation of the effects of childhood exposure to trauma on brain development, as well as on the physical and mental health of children and adolescents; (3) a description of current challenges and efforts to address childhood trauma; (4) identification of different approaches for addressing the mental health needs of children exposed to trauma; and (5) examples of the role of health philanthropy in addressing childhood trauma and improving children's mental health. A conclusion and references are included. Contact: Grantmakers In Health, 1100 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Suite 1200, Washington, DC 20036-4101, Telephone: (202) 452-8331 Fax: (202) 452-8340 Web Site: http://www.gih.org Available from the website. Keywords: Adolescent health, Child health, Intervention, Mental health, Philanthropy, Public policy, Trauma |