Behavioral & Mental Health Specialist

All About Children Pediatrics

Pediatric Clinic located in Eden Prairie, MN

About 20% of teenagers in the United States may suffer from a mental health disorder. If your teenager experiences depression, anxiety, an eating disorder, or symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the expert pediatric team at All About Children Pediatrics in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, can help. Call 952-943-8200 to schedule a mental health evaluation today.

952-943-8200

Behavioral & Mental Health Q & A

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.