Behavioral & Mental Health Specialist

What is mental health?

Mental health is your child’s ability to function well in society, their emotional health, and an overall sense of well-being. Being in a good state of mental health means your child is happy, emotionally healthy, and can establish good relationships with their peers, parents, teachers, and coaches.

What are the symptoms of mental health disorders?

Common mental health disorders in children and teenagers include depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and ADHD. Signs and symptoms of mental health issues include:

• Having little or no energy
• Sleeping or eating too much or too little
• Isolation from friends, family, and activities
• Feeling hopeless or anxious
• Unexplained aches or pains
• Irritability and mood swings
• Thoughts of harming yourself or others
• Hearing voices
• Diminished ability to pay attention or uncontrollable hyperactivity 
• Smoking, using illicit drugs, or heavy drinking

Teens suffering from mental health disorders often find it difficult to deal with normal everyday situations or isolate themselves from people and activities they once enjoyed. Their physical health can take a toll, too.

What are the benefits of mental health treatments?

If your child suffers from depression, anxiety, ADHD, an eating disorder, or another mental health disorder, a good treatment plan can help them:

• Maintain good interpersonal relationships
• Feel happier
• Focus better at school or work
• Cope with daily stressors
• Stay physically healthy
• Be more productive at work or school
• Realize their full potential

Children and teens with good mental health tend to be physically healthier and have more energy, less chronic pain, and fewer disease risk factors.

How are mental health disorders diagnosed?

To diagnose mental health issues in children and teens, your pediatrician reviews your child’s medical history and asks questions about their symptoms. They complete a physical exam and may use diagnostic tests to detect or rule out medical problems associated with fatigue, depression, or anxiety.

What is the treatment for mental health disorders?

Your All About Children Pediatrics provider works with you and your child to develop a personalized mental health treatment plan that best suits their needs. They might recommend:

Lifestyle changes

Making lifestyle changes, such as getting regular exercise, eating healthy, not smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight can boost your child's energy, confidence, mood, and overall quality of life.

Medications

Taking certain medications can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Your pediatrician reviews the risks and benefits of medications.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, helps your child learn coping strategies to deal with stressful situations and unpleasant emotions.