Mental Health

Mental health is an important aspect of pediatric care, one that doesn’t always receive the attention it deserves. At SEARK Children's Clinic James Atkins, MD, FAAP, offers mental health services to families in and around Monticello, Arkansas, helping kids thrive in all aspects of life. If you’d like to learn more, book a visit online any time of day, or call the office during normal business hours. 

What kinds of mental health conditions affect kids?

As many as one out of every five children between the ages of 3-17 have some form of mental, developmental, or emotional disorder. 

Some examples of mental health challenges that children may encounter include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Oppositional defiant disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Tourette syndrome (TS)

Helping a child navigate these challenges begins with receiving a proper diagnosis.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common developmental disorder that causes serious disruption in a child’s experience at home, at school, and in social settings. SEARK Children’s Clinic participates in the CoBALT program, which strives to expedite the process of diagnosing autism and beginning services. 

What are some indications my child might be experiencing anxiety or depression?

Understanding if your child might benefit from these services begins with identifying symptoms. 

Depression

Depression is more than just sadness and affects many aspects of daily life. Some of the signs a child might be depressed include:

• Withdrawing from friends and family
• Sleeping more or less than usual
• Inability to find joy in things that were once pleasurable
• Feelings of guilt, hopelessness, or worthlessness

Depression can get in the way of success at school as well as building healthy friendships. 

Anxiety

Anxiety goes beyond normal childhood fears and worries and makes it difficult for kids to engage with others at school and in social settings. Some of the indications of childhood anxiety include:

• Sudden, intense fears 
• Becoming fearful when parents are not present 
• Fears surrounding interactions with other people 
• Persistent worries about the future 

Kids with anxiety often try to shape their daily experience in ways that avoid situations that provoke a fearful response. 

How are pediatric mental health needs treated?

Dr. Atkins approaches pediatric mental health patients with compassion and kindness. He works closely with patients and parents to find a path toward reduced symptoms and improved resiliency. 

Talk therapy is an important part of addressing mental health concerns. Through therapy, kids can learn how to identify disordered thinking and change the way they react to specific triggers. Over time, they build better coping skills and learn how to navigate various circumstances. 

Medications can play a role in treating childhood mental and behavioral health issues, but drug therapy is never the sole approach. Telemedicine visits are also available. When you’re ready to learn more, book a visit online or by phone.