This guide is designed to be a one-stop resource for all parents—from those who simply have questions about common children’s mental health problems, like ADHD, self-esteem or depression, to those who are looking for advocacy organizations and support groups to help them with difficult issues concerning their child’s diagnosis. The guide is written for parents, but it is our hope that other caregivers, family members, community organizations, schools and health care providers will also use the information in this guide.
Introduction
by
David R. Gifford, MD, MPH, director of health, Rhode Island Department of Health
and Daniel J. Wall, president and chief executive officer, Bradley Hospital
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| Navigating the Children's Mental Health Care System |
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Concerned about your child’s mental health but not sure what to do? With a step-by-step guide, this section is a great place to start.
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| Signs and Symptoms of Mental Health Issues |
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Mental health issues are usually put into different categories based on similar signs and symptoms. Start with this section if you notice specific signs or symptoms in your child, but are not sure what they may mean.
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| Talking to your Child's Pediatrician |
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Not sure who to turn to first? Your child’s pediatrician is an excellent choice. Turn to this section for more information about the role of your child’s pediatrician in the mental health care system.
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| Mental Health Assessments and Evaluations |
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Providers use a variety of assessments and evaluations when examining a child’s mental health. Use this section to learn more about the different types of assessments and evaluations so you know what to expect.
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| Common Mental Health Diagnoses |
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This section describes some of the most commonly diagnosed mental illnesses in children. Each diagnosis lists typical signs and symptoms, tells how the diagnosis is made, gives possible treatment options, and provides helpful resources.
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| Mental Health Support |
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Caring for a child with a mental health issue is not easy. In this section, learn more about the different parts of the mental health care system and how you and your support team can work with them.
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| Mental Health Treatment |
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A variety of treatments are available for children with mental health issues. This section will provide some general information about the different treatment options.
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| Paying for Mental Health Care |
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Understanding coverage for any type of health care can be confusing. Use this section to learn more about the different types of health care coverage and where to find additional resources when mental health services are not covered by your insurance.
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| Additional Support and Information |
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Need more information? Here’s a list of guides, organizations, programs, websites, support groups and books. Use these resources to get the support you need for yourself and your child.
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| Acronyms |
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The mental health system is filled with acronyms and abbreviations. Wonder what the letters mean after a mental health provider’s name? Or what abbreviations are used for different treatments? Look them up in this section.
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| Topic Index |
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Can’t find what you are looking for? Check this section’s alphabetical listing of the topics covered in the guide.
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| Crisis Situations |
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| This section provides important information and resources. Pull out this section of the guide during a crisis. |
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Download the entire guide
(5.1 MB, 224 pages)
For more information or to request a copy of the guide, please e-mail info@childrenmentalhealthguideri.org. |
