Pediatric Mental Health and the Power of Primary Care: Practical Approaches and Validating Challenges.

Abstract

With over 300 school shootings in the past 5 years, the unprecedented use of online social media, and the growing demands of academia, mental illness is quickly becoming one of the top causes of morbidity and mortality in the pediatric population. In the past year, 90% of children in the U.S. visited their pediatric primary care provider (PCP), giving PCPs a unique opportunity to address the mental health needs of their patients. The author conducted a comprehensive review of the literature. This clinical paper seeks to validate the mental health competency of pediatric PCPs, identifies current challenges, and outlines practical approaches to care. The consequences of untreated pediatric mental illness are indisputable. Pediatric PCPs have an obligation to address the growing pediatric mental health crisis directly. By utilizing standardized screening tools, referring to established clinical guidelines, seeking continuing education, and developing a comprehensive list of available resources, pediatric PCPs can incorporate mental health care into primary care.