Anxiety & Depression

Anxiety and depression aren’t just adult conditions. Children and teens suffer from these mental health issues and deserve compassionate, age-appropriate care. At ADM Parham Pediatrics in Henrico, Virginia, board-certified pediatrician Usama Samman, MBBCH, MD, FAAP, provides support for pediatric patients struggling with anxiety and depression. Call the office today or use the online tool to schedule a visit if you’re worried about your child’s mental health.

What is depression?

Depression isn’t just a temporary case of the blues. When a child or adolescent experiences persistent sadness and hopelessness, it could be a sign of depression. They may lose interest in activities they once loved, become socially isolated, or have poor energy. 

Signs of depression in children and teens include:

• Intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or irritability
• Expressing feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Sleeping more or less than usual
• No desire to do fun things
• Eating more or less than usual
• Participation in self-destructive behavior

A depressed child or teen may hurt themselves or turn to drugs and alcohol. Depression can also cause suicidal thoughts; if this is the case for your child, seek help immediately.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a normal human experience, especially before a major school presentation or exam. But, these instances of anxiety usually pass as the stressor does. If your child expresses persistent worry and fear that seem out of proportion to the events at hand, they may have an anxiety disorder. 

Anxiety can cause your child to be fearful, so they avoid normal activities, like school, social time, and family events. They may become isolated and withdrawn.

Signs that your child or teen has an anxiety disorder include: 

• Sleep disruptions
• Difficulty controlling fear or worry
• Restlessness
• Fear of separation from their parents
• Avoidance of social events 
• Extreme phobias
• Worry about the future and bad things happening

Children and teens can experience anxiety attacks that seem like a major health crisis. Anxiety attacks may cause profuse sweating, increased heart rate, trembling, weakness, and rapid breathing. 

How do you treat depression and anxiety?

At ADM Parham Pediatrics, Dr. Samman always checks in with your child or teen’s mental health status at wellness checks. If your child has troubling symptoms, bring these up to the doctor as well.

The team at ADM Parham Pediatrics offers services that help support your child’s mental well-being. The doctor may prescribe medications along with counseling to help your child cope with their feelings and modify their behavior.  Medication is not the only line of treatment, but it can help your child manage symptoms so that talk and behavior therapy can work. 

If you’re concerned about your child’s mental health, contact ADM Parham Pediatrics to have them screened for anxiety and depression. Use this website to schedule an appointment online or call the staff to arrange your visit.