Parent Resources Billing InformationHealth LibraryNew Parent ResourcesChoosing a PediatricianInterviewing a PediatricianWhat to Pack in Your Hospital BagNewborn Well Child ScheduleNew Patient Forms Mental Health At Valley Children’s, we believe that health includes not only physical wellness, but mental and emotional wellness, too. We also recognize that mental health is closely tied to physical health – anxiety, stress or depression can manifest in physical symptoms like headache, fatigue and stomach pain or other gastrointestinal issues. Because of this linkage between mind and body, issues with emotional health are often hard to spot and diagnose. That is why it’s important to be closely involved in your child’s emotional well-being, and to make an emotional well-being check-up a part of your child’s regular well child exam. Never be afraid to enlist your child’s pediatrician to help if you are concerned about your child’s mental health. Literature shows that one in five children will suffer from depression by the end of adolescence, and approximately half of teens with depression are not diagnosed until adulthood. As parents, you are the first line of defense in recognizing changes in your child’s emotional well-being. It’s important to develop an open dialogue with your child early on about their mental health, and allow them to come to you for help or advice. Understanding Childhood Stressors Many parents believe that children are unaware of daily stressors that adults experience. In reality, children are very sensitive to their environment, and changes can cause anxiety, stress, depression or even fear. Additionally, children can encounter challenges at school, which can sometimes include being overloaded and stressed, bullying, low self-esteem and other issues. Social media can often intensify these stressors because they encourage an “always-on” mentality for school-age children, and may lead to increased peer pressure and exposure to online bullying. If you suspect that your child may be struggling with their mental health and feel you need professional help, talk with their pediatrician about ways to support their mental and emotional well-being. Resources for Parents American Academy of Pediatrics – Healthy Children – Emotional Wellness 360me: Valley Children's initiative to help families, schools and communities safeguard children’s physical and mental health Valley Children’s Health Encyclopedia – Answers to Questions About Your Child’s Mental Health Valley Children’s Health Encyclopedia – Topic: Adolescent Mental Health Valley Children’s Health Encyclopedia – Knowing When to Seek Treatment for Your Child