Here are four ways pediatricians and family physicians can support children's mental health in their practices, according to the American Medical Association:
- Physicians should encourage strong, stable relationships between their patients and an adult at home as one of the most important factors to build good mental health among children and adolescents.
- Physicians should utilize screening tools to gauge a patient's anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation, as well as other mental and developmental conditions.
- Physicians should address mild mental health needs early and refer more severe cases to mental health professionals with more specialized training.
- Physicians should consider a variety of treatments, including medication or cognitive behavioral therapy. For more mild cases, physicians could recommend a healthy diet, good sleep routines, exercise, mindfulness and joining peer-support groups that encourage forming social connections.