Mission Connection (866-752-0455) has released a new guide outlining how mental illnesses may affect an individual’s custody of their child and what rights mentally ill parents have in family legal disputes.

San Juan Capistrano, United States, August 8, 2025 -- The treatment center’s latest guide highlights how a guardian’s mental health can potentially influence the well-being of children, exploring ways for parents to maintain a healthy relationship with their child. In the guide, Mission Connection also explores how caregivers can protect their rights to parent in the event of custody battles.

For more information, please visit https://missionconnectionhealthcare.com/mental-health/legal-rights/mental-health-and-custody/

Parents with mental disorders are more likely to lose custody of their children than parents who are not mentally ill; statistics indicate that only a third of children born to a parent with a serious mental condition are still being raised by that parent. According to Mental Health America, this heightened risk is due to the impact mental health conditions may have on an individual’s ability to parent, their financial standing, and their home environment.

While the presence of a mental illness cannot be used to determine parental unfitness, Mission Connection says that conditions like depression and anxiety can affect an individual’s ability to respond to a child’s emotional needs. This can lead to a phenomenon known as “inconsistent parenting,” which can impact the child’s emotional security and their ability to develop relationships with others.

However, because mental disorders are classified as disabilities, parents with a mental illness are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This act states that neither child welfare agencies, schools, nor the court can take action against a parent because of their mental health diagnosis. Instead, these institutions must evaluate the individual’s behavior, which includes their ability to meet their child’s needs and their willingness to seek treatment for their condition.

Moreover, Mission Connection’s guide says that the Federal Adoption and Safe Families Act (ASFA) requires state agencies to make “reasonable efforts” to prevent unnecessary foster care placements. This act must also ensure parents have adequate access to support services that will help them maintain custody of their children.

Additionally, parents can protect their rights during custody battles by keeping a detailed record of therapy sessions, mental health assessments, medications, and participation in activities with their child. Written testimonies from licensed mental health professionals and family law attorneys will also strengthen the parent’s case in court and confirm their ability to parent.

Interested parties can learn more by visiting https://missionconnectionhealthcare.com/

Contact Info:
Name: Nathan Di Tomaso
Email: Send Email
Organization: Mission Connection
Address: 30310 Rancho Viejo Rd. , San Juan Capistrano, California 92675, United States
Website: https://missionconnectionhealthcare.com/

Source: PressCable

Release ID: 89166797

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