Pediatric Mental Health

Yes. Research shows that one out of five children has a diagnosable mental health condition, and more than one-third of visits to a pediatrician are for purely psychological reasons. In fact, signs of depression can appear as early as age five. The good news is that the earlier mental illness is treated, the better chance a child has to prevent long-term effects on his or her health and well-being.

Children can have mental health disorders that interfere with the way they think, feel and act. Although some behavior problems can be attributed to normal child development, some require professional help. Mental health problems deserve attention when they are severe, persistent and affect daily activities. Seek help if your child:

-Is often sad, worried or fearful
-Has dramatic changes in appetite or sleep needs
-Is spending most of his or her time alone instead of with friends or family
-Has declining grades or interest in school
-Is hyperactive, impulsive or has trouble concentrating
-Is self-destructive or overly aggressive toward others
-Is no longer interested in activities they used to enjoy.

When untreated, mental health disorders can lead to school failure, drug abuse, violence and even suicide. Most children who receive the right kind of help go on to live full and healthy lives. Seeking help early is key to a positive outcome.

Kids and teens need therapy when they have problems they can’t cope with alone. Or they need help when problems affect how well they do, feel, or act. If things don’t get better on their own, kids may need therapy so things can improve. Sometimes, entire families need support while trying to communicate, learn, and create boundaries.

Mental health therapy, sometimes called psychotherapy, can be very successful in helping children and adolescents address mental health issues. Our children’s and teens’ psychologists use a range of therapy techniques depending on a patient’s age, comfort level and unique needs. We may use “talk” therapy, medical play, art or games to encourage expression, family therapy and coping skills like hypnotherapy, biofeedback therapy and relaxation.

Therapy sessions generally last 45 minutes and are often scheduled weekly or every other week, although sessions can be more or less frequent depending on a child’s needs. Sessions can include:

-Talking one-on-one with a pediatric psychologist, either individually or with family members
-Art activities and therapeutic games to encourage expression
-Role playing, sometimes with dolls or toys for younger children, to build new interpersonal skills
-Practicing relaxation techniques to build coping skills.

Supplemental reading material or homework may be provided to the child and/or parents between sessions and is reviewed in the next session. Homework can include activities like journaling or logging events between sessions, practicing new skills or engaging in an activity together as a family.

Yes. Therapy works best when parents and families are involved. In some cases, therapy sessions might only involve parents. Your child’s therapist will discuss the best ways you can help your child get better.

CHOC has many different mental health specialists available, including:

Psychologists: Psychologists for children and teens work to meet the emotional, behavioral and psychological needs of the patient and family. They are not medical doctors, but have earned a doctorate degree.

Neuropsychologists: Neuropsychologists are doctoral-trained pediatric psychologists who specialize in how diseases, injuries and disorders of the nervous system affect emotions and behaviors.

Psychiatrists: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who treat mental health issues. They can prescribe medications, but may also use a number of counseling techniques.

Social Workers: Social workers may provide counseling, advocate on a family’s behalf and assist with any psychosocial needs.

CHOC is a teaching hospital, which means that advanced-training students may also be involved in your child’s care. You will always be informed if a student is part of your care team. Learn more about what to expect at a teaching hospital.

Sometimes, psychotherapies, behavioral strategies and family support may be all a child needs. In other cases, medications are needed to help the child cope. If medication is prescribed, the child should be monitored and evaluated regularly. Your child’s doctor will discuss the treatment options with you.

Everyone experiences distress from time to time. Children and teenagers can go through spells
where they seem very upset. However, people who struggle with a mental health disorder tend to
experience distress more regularly and more strongly.

View our guide to know when to seek mental health care for your child. Always seek immediate help if a child engages in unsafe behavior or talks about wanting to hurt themselves or someone else.

At CHOC, we have many health care professionals who can help you. You can call us at 714-509-8481. We may recommend that you visit your child’s pediatrician or primary care doctor first.