The Indian Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health (IACAM), conceived in 1988 was officially established in 1990, marking the culmination of a long-cherished dream among professionals in addressing the mental health challenges across children and adolescents. Over the past three decades, IACAM has significantly expanded its reach, now comprising over 850 active members committed to enhancing mental health services throughout India. The association organizes national conferences biennially and hosts mid-term Continuing Medical Education (CME) programs in alternate years, thereby promoting continuous professional development and collaboration among its members. In 2005, IACAM launched a journal that serves as a crucial platform for disseminating research findings and insights, enriching the field with contemporary knowledge.

A pivotal milestone in IACAM's journey was its affiliation with the International Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions (IACAPAP) in July 1994. This partnership has facilitated knowledge exchange and collaboration with global experts in child and adolescent mental health. In 2023, IACAM collaborated with UNICEF's Regional Office for South Asia (ROSA) to establish the Child and Adolescent Mental Health South Asia Regional Network (CAMHSAN), highlighting IACAM's commitment to regional cooperation and advocacy for improved mental health services.

The IACAM Academy, which offers a unique ten-month capacity-building program, is an initiative that underscores the association’s focus on education. IACAM also emphasizes the importance of research in child and adolescent mental health, aiming to disseminate valuable findings to professionals and the public through various scientific activities. Additionally, it engages in advocacy efforts by conducting public lectures and workshops.