Feeling anxious is a response to the daily stress life brings us. Sometimes it can provide a push to help get yourself motivated. Other times it can be incapacitating. Children, adolescents, and young adults during their development may exhibit strong concerns they do not understand. When it results in difficulty sleeping, avoiding school and social situations, as well as believing they are experiencing an illness that is not there, it is important seek medical attention.
Children, adolescents, and young adults reach a point when they do not find enjoyment in everyday activities and lack enough energy to get through the day. This may be the result of ongoing anxiety, post traumatic stress, seasonal change, etc. A thorough physical examination and testing is done before reaching a diagnosis of Depression.
At Northport pediatrics we recognize that being worried and/or sad is different for each patient. We offer mental health services to identify your child's needs and we collaborate on therapy specific to your child’s needs. The diagnosis is based on screens, comprehensive history from the patient, parents, school and other health providers.
There are many different treatment plans based on the cause and severity of anxiety/depression. We strongly believe in cognitive behavioral therapy and the support of the family. There are circumstances when medication may be necessary.
A recent study conducted in Norway found that children between ages 6 and 8 who engaged in vigorous physical activity each day showed fewer symptoms of a major depression two years later.