Anxiety and depression are the two most common mental health conditions affecting children and teens. Anxiety affects 32%, while 13% have depression, and many experience severe symptoms that need intensive care. The OCEC Foundation in Cleveland, Ohio, successfully treats children and teens by creating customized treatment plans based on each person’s age, developmental ability, and the depth of their symptoms. If you’re worried about ongoing signs of depression and anxiety in your child or teen, schedule an appointment online or call the office today to learn about the in-patient program.
Depression is a common problem in teens, but you may be surprised to learn that early-onset depression can affect children as young as six years old. At any age, children and teens share symptoms that are similar to those in adults with depression, such as:
Children and teens often have physical symptoms such as stomach aches, and adolescents may start to use alcohol or drugs.
Anxiety becomes a concern for children and teens when their fear or apprehension is out of proportion to the situation, gets worse over time, or affects their daily life.
Your child or teen may have generalized anxiety, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or a specific phobia. They can also develop separation anxiety that persists long after they should be over normal childhood separation issues.
When children and teens have an anxiety disorder, they:
Severe anxiety affects their ability to succeed in school and in their social life.
Depression and anxiety treatment involves evidence-based psychotherapy such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and interpersonal psychotherapy. Some children and adolescents may also need medication to help alleviate their symptoms.
The OCEC Foundation in-patient program offers intensive 24/7 care that includes individual and group therapy, while also teaching daily living skills and creating developmentally appropriate treatment plans. They also offer nutritional guidance to promote optimal mental and physical health.
The team believes in an approach to treatment that embraces family, LGBTQ+ individuals, and diverse cultures.
If your child or teen becomes depressed or anxious, help is available at OCEC Foundation. Call or schedule an appointment online.