Cambodia is a young nation with more than 40% of the population below 15 years. Studies both in developing and developed nations reveal 10% to 15% of children to suffer from mental health problem and 3% to 4% varying degrees development delay (mental retardation).

The CCAMH team conducted survey in Dam Nak Pring and T’bengs schools of Kandal province to assess the prevalence of emotional and behavior problems among the students.

Community based child mental health program, a participatory action research, was launched in April 1999. The village leaders and the families actively involved themselves at every phase of the program from mapping to referral program.