Anxiety/Depression Evaluations

Mental health conditions have become increasingly common among American youth. According to statistics, approximately 7.1% of children aged 3-17 have been diagnosed with anxiety, while 3.2%^[1] have been diagnosed with depression. Among adolescents specifically, the rates climb even higher: 31.9%^[2] of teens experience anxiety disorders, and 13.3%^[2] experience major depressive episodes. 

Comorbidity and Co-occurrence

Anxiety and depression frequently occur together, with studies showing that children with depression also meet the criteria for an anxiety disorder. This comorbidity complicates diagnosis and treatment, as symptoms can overlap and exacerbate one another. Children experiencing both conditions often face more severe impairment in academic, social, and family functioning compared to those with a single diagnosis.

How These Conditions Manifest in Young People

In children, anxiety may present as excessive clinginess, school refusal, physical complaints like stomachaches, or behavioral outbursts. Depression might manifest as irritability rather than sadness, academic decline, social withdrawal, or changes in eating and sleeping patterns. Adolescents may show more adult-like symptoms but often express them through risk-taking behaviors, substance use, or self-harm.

Evaluation and Care

At Kiddies' Pal Pediatrics, we recognize that mental health is as important as physical health, especially for children and teens navigating emotional challenges. We offer careful anxiety and depression evaluations to identify symptoms that might affect your child's mood, behavior, or daily functioning. Our assessments include interviews, questionnaires, and collaboration with caregivers and schools to obtain and understand the complete picture.

We follow the clinical practice guidelines set forth by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) to ensure the highest standard of care. Following diagnosis, we provide compassionate care plans tailored to your child's needs, incorporating counseling referrals, coping strategies, and, if necessary, medication management. Dr. Minuskin prioritizes early intervention and family education to support the long-term emotional health and overall well-being of our patients.

References

^[1] Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

^[2] Source: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), 2022