The importance of emotional and behavioral screening for your child
What should expect from a pediatrician's office when it comes to screening your child for mental or behavioral disorders? Find out more here.
You bring your son to the pediatrician's office. Physically, you are fairly certain that he is fine, but you can't shake the feeling that something is wrong. His tantrums seem more intense than other children. He seems to keep to himself at the playground. He is unable to attend to a specific activity and seems constantly all over the place. You feel something is wrong, but does your pediatrician ask the right questions? Do you know what questions to ask?
A report released online today from the American Academy of Pediatrics outlined that behavioral and emotional concerns are not readily identified and treated in our health system. Currently, 11 percent to 20 percent of children suffer from a diagnosed mental or behavioral disorder, and it is estimated that only 1 in 8 children receive treatment. The most common emotional and behavioral problems include Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders. The earlier that these problems are identified and treated, the better the outcome.
So what may you find in a pediatrician's office that is adequately screening for emotional and behavioral concerns? My colleague (and fellow Healthy Kids blogger) Peter Bidey, DO, says, "Preparation is key." It is essential for doctors to educate parents and patients during the visit and to prepare them with questions that will be asked in follow-up visits. This will also help parents to notice early signs or behaviors that may be of concern.
In addition, for younger children, it is important to review any standardized questionnaires with parents, such as screens that can assist with identifying autism spectrum disorder and other developmental and communication disorders.
For older children, Bidey stresses the importance of having an open conversation with the child and educating parent and patients (together and separately) of the signs of anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. A fairly recent trend is also integrated health care centers, where a psychologist is on staff to support and help screen and follow up for any emotional and behavioral concerns. A recent post from this blog highlighted where you can find integrated care in our region.
In addition to what pediatricians can do, what can parents do to help identify potential emotional and behavioral concerns early?
Have open communication with your pediatrician: Be honest with what you are experiencing with your child. Ask what types of behavior you should be looking for that may be appropriate social and emotional development, as well as atypical social and emotional development.
Trust your instincts: You know your child better than anyone. If you are noticing behavior in your child that you feel is not typical, say something to your pediatrician. Ask for a screening and appropriate referrals for school and community support and intervention.
Utilize school resources: Although most social and emotional disorders can be identified in the primary care setting, if you have school age children and you are concerned with their behavioral and emotional development, contact the special education services in your school district. Schools do not just support academics, but also social, emotional, and behavioral development. This is also an essential piece after your child is identified with an emotional and behavioral disorder, to ensure that your child is receiving the appropriate services in the school.
Be an advocate: If you see something, say something. Emotional and behavioral disorders can seem scary, but with early identification and intervention there can be excellent outcomes for your child and family.
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