What are the signs your child may need psychiatry and psychological services?

Poor mental health can affect overall well-being and can lead to substance abuse, severe eating disorders or suicide. Many children experience loss or stress, and others must manage their chronic illness at a young age. Some children have a disorder that runs in the family and puts them at higher risk for depression or anxiety.

It can be difficult for parents and others who are close to children and teens to know when certain behaviors are “normal” for an age group or situation. But if your child or teen has a serious problem such as an eating disorder, mood disorder, or is considering suicide, you should not discount the behavior as simple moodiness or as part of a stage of development.

If you notice that your young child or teen has sudden or major changes in behavior, such as crying or becoming angry or worried more often, withdrawing from friends and family or losing weight, you should seek more information about possible eating or mood disorders.

If your child or teen shows extreme anxiety, depression, problems with nightmares and sleeping, aggressive behaviors or if he talks of suicide, seek immediate help from your hospital’s emergency department.

What are psychiatry, psychology and neuropsychology?

Psychiatry is a medical specialty. Psychiatrists attend medical school and psychiatry residency training. Our child psychiatrists receive additional training in caring for children and adolescents.

Psychology is the study, treatment and prevention of problems with human behavior. Our psychologists have master’s degrees and specialize in child psychology.

Neuropsychology focuses on studying and treating problems related to brain function caused by brain disorders or injuries.

Our psychiatrists, psychologists and neuropsychologists are supported by a team of therapists, nurses and other professionals committed to serving children, adolescents and their families. The attending physicians supervise the psychiatrists currently in their rotation fellowship and residency programs. Supervision is provided during your child's psychiatric treatment at all levels of care.

We have psychiatrists and psychologists in our hospitals and outpatient clinics who are dedicated to Children’s Health℠ and who are here for our patients and families all day long.

Call us at 214-456-8899 or use our online form to request an appointment.