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March 2023

Is My Child Depressed? 8 Signs To Look For

By Uncategorized

It’s heartbreaking to watch your child go through depression. You try to understand what they are going through, which often makes you feel overwhelmed and helpless. Unfortunately, our kids’ mental health is all too often overlooked until the depression has already taken over their lives.

In this blog post, we will talk about how depression in children manifests itself and tools that parents can use to help manage and mitigate its symptoms for their child’s mental well-being without compromising anyone’s quality of life or your family’s stability.

Data & Statistics

In 2022 JAMA Pediatrics published an article that showed how anxiety and depression were trending issues among kids aged 13-17. By 2020, 5.6 million kids (9.2%) had been diagnosed with anxiety problems, and 2.4 million (4.0%) had depression.

Even before the pandemic, mental health diagnoses had been on a steady incline. Between 2016 and 2019, anxiety saw an immense surge, with 27% more children being diagnosed, while depression experienced a 24% jump. The prevalence of these conditions continued to rise in 2020 despite economic uncertainty; 5.6 million kids live with anxiety every day, and 2.4 million are facing depression as well.

Can You Tell If Your Child Is Depressed? Here Are The Main Symptoms

When a child is depressed, parents may notice some of these signs:

  • Sad or bad mood:  Your child may seem more irritable, sad, or hopeless. They might talk about feeling like they can’t be happy anymore.
  • Lack of interest: Your child may not want to participate in activities that were once enjoyable.
  • Sleeping too much or too little: Your child might sleep more than usual or less. In either case, their sleeping patterns should be monitored.
  • Eating too much or too little: Your child’s appetite might change significantly, and they may gain or lose weight quickly.
  • Low energy: Your child may seem more tired than usual and have difficulty getting out of bed in the morning.
  • Social withdrawal: Your child might be less likely to spend time with friends or family or stop participating in socializing activities.
  • Difficulty managing emotions: Your child may struggle to control their feelings and have outbursts of anger or sadness. They could also become overwhelmed very quickly by even gentle criticism.
  • Poor concentration: Your child may find it hard to focus on tasks or seem more forgetful.

What Should You Do If You Think Your Child Is Depressed?

If you think your child may be experiencing depression, it’s important to take action and seek professional help. Here are some tips on how to manage the condition:

  1. Talk to them: The most important thing is to open up a dialogue and let them know that you are there for them no matter what. Show them that you are willing to listen and provide emotional support. Don’t judge. Don’t minimize their feelings, dismiss their symptoms, deny their feelings, or compare their feelings to others. Just listen and provide a safe space to open up when they are ready.
  2. Create a safe environment: Make sure your home is where your child can feel comfortable and secure. Set expectations for yourself and them to create an atmosphere of understanding and respect.
  3. Reach out to a child therapist: If the depression is severe and you’re concerned about your child’s safety, find a professional therapist who specializes in treating children and teens. Seeking professional support can be an important step in helping your child overcome depression.

Is Your Child Battling With Depression? You’re Not Alone. We Can Help You Overcome It.

Depression can be a difficult and painful experience for both children and parents. But with the right support, it is possible to manage the condition and help your child lead a healthy, happy life. At Rogue Community Health, we have professional therapists ready to help your child out of this serious medical illness.

Our providers care for all behavioral health issues, such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Don’t let money be an issue regarding your children’s mental health. We are a non-profit organization that supports parents and families, no matter their insurance or financial status. Book an appointment with a friendly professional at our pediatrics clinic today.

 

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Does My Child Need Behavioral Health Care?

By Uncategorized

One of the most important aspects of any child’s life is their physical, mental, and behavioral health. Providing stable and positive support systems is essential for a child to achieve their highest potential. However, some children from socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds may face barriers in accessing comprehensive care.

Behavioral health provides holistic means to give these children the tools they need to thrive and grow into successful adults — particularly those uninsured or with limited financial resources at their disposal. In this blog post, we will discuss why behavioral healthcare is essential for kids who face challenges during their formative years and how it can contribute to improved cognitive-emotional development.

What Is Behavioral Health Care?

Behavioral health care is a specialized form of mental and emotional care that helps children cope with their psychological and social issues. Through this therapy, kids work with compassionate and experienced professionals who help them to learn essential life skills such as problem-solving, communication, resilience, and self-regulation. RCH Medford’s behavioral health care team can also help kids with more serious mental illnesses like depression and anxiety disorders.

Data & Statistics

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), ADHD, anxiety, behavior problems, and depression are the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders in children. Between 2016-2019, 1 in every 3 children with behavior problems also had anxiety, and 1 in every 5 presented a depressive disorder.

Most mental, behavioral, and developmental disorders begin in early childhood. 1 in every 6 U.S. children aged 2–8 years had a diagnosed mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder back in 2016. The CDC states that untreated behavioral problems can lead to depression, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts, especially when they reach the age of 12-17 years old.

The Importance Of Seeking Early Treatment

Mental illness can start in childhood, impacting a variety of social backgrounds. Unfortunately, some groups are more likely to suffer due to socioeconomic factors like poverty and lack of knowledge or resources – leading to an imbalanced distribution of  behavioral health services.

Seeking behavioral health services at an early stage can stop the progression of mental health issues. Here are some other ways in which it can improve your child’s quality of life:

  • It can help them better understand and regulate their emotions, allowing them to respond in healthy wayswhen facing stressful situations.
  • It can boost self-esteem, helping children accept themselves and build strong relationships with others.
  • It can provide coping tools for anxiety, depression, or ADHD that may arise during theirteenage and adult years.
  • It can encourage kids to become resilient and confident in facing challenges throughout their lives.

Find Understanding Behavioral Health Professionals In Southern Oregon

Is your child struggling at school, social events, or at home due to behavioral issues? At Rogue Community Health, we’re here to listen, guide, and provide the appropriate care to support your child and their mental health throughout their journey to adulthood. It’s normal to fear for your child’s health and future, which is why our team of experienced doctors and support professionals are trained to give your children extra support and guidance based on their unique set of needs and comfort levels.

Rogue Community Health was founded 50 years ago as a non-profit organization committed to ensuring everyone in our community receives the best possible healthcare, regardless of their insurance or financial status. Schedule an appointment for your children with one of our behavioral health experts today.

4 Differences Between Medical Care And Health Care

By Uncategorized

Medical care and health care are two very distinct yet closely related services, each requiring specific skill sets and approaches. While medical care primarily focuses on treating physical illnesses, health care takes a broader approach, aiming to address the patient’s overall well-being.

With this blog post, you’ll learn the difference between the two and how each is useful to you and your needs.

4 Main Differences Between Medical Care And Health Care

  1. Medical care focuses on treating illness and injury, while health care focuses on preventing illness and promoting health.
  2. Doctors and other trained medical professionals provide medical care. In contrast, various professionals can provide health care, including doctors, nurses, nutritionists, and fitness instructors.
  3. Medical care is typically paid for by insurance, while health care may or may not be covered.
  4. Medical care is usually only sought when someone is sick or injured. In contrast, health care is an ongoing process that should be followed even when you feel well.

Understanding these concepts’ differences allows us to create comprehensive plans that cover medical and health services tailored specifically for each individual.

Rogue Community Health Provides BOTH Of These Services!

At Rogue Community Health, we recognize the importance of physical and emotional wellness in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. That’s why our facilities offer access to various healthcare and medical care services designed to prevent illness and promote well-being.

Our facilities are equipped with advanced medical technology, resources, and qualified, experienced providers dedicated to helping you get back on the road to health. We accept Medicaid and most insurance plans so that everyone can take advantage of the care we have to offer.

In addition, we also offer flexible self-pay options so those without insurance coverage can still access our services. Take charge of your well-being today by visiting one of Rogue Community Health’s facilities. Our expert staff is here to help you on your journey toward a healthier tomorrow. Come and get back on track with us!

9 Tips For Managing Anxiety In Daily Life

By Uncategorized

Do you feel like anxiety is taking over your life? You’re not alone. Anxiety is a common problem and can be difficult to manage. But don’t worry; there are numerous ways to combat anxiety and get you back to feeling like yourself

In this blog post, we’ll review nine daily tips for managing anxiety, all designed to create greater emotional balance in our lives. So if you want to take control of your feelings and gain more peace within yourself, read on for practical tips for managing anxiety every day!

9 Ways To Manage Your Anxiety

Here are some ways to deal with anxiety daily:

1. Identify Your Triggers

The first step to managing your anxiety is to identify your triggers. What are the things that make you feel anxious? Once you know your triggers, you can avoid them or deal with them more effectively.

2. Avoid Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant and can therefore make anxiety worse. If you are prone to anxiety, try avoiding caffeine or limiting your intake.

3. Exercise Regularly

Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety. It helps release endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. Additionally, exercise can help to improve sleep quality, which can also help to reduce anxiety.

4. Eat A Well-Balanced Diet

Eating a well-balanced diet is important for overall health and can help reduce anxiety. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, are particularly helpful in reducing anxiety symptoms.

5. Limit Alcohol Intake

Alcohol may seem like a good way to relax, but it can worsen anxiety. Alcohol is a depressant and can therefore exacerbate feelings of worry and stress. If you struggle with anxiety, it is best to limit your alcohol intake or avoid it altogether.

6. Get Enough Sleep

Sleep plays an important role in managing anxiety levels. When you are well-rested, you can better cope with stressful situations. Make sure to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

7. Practice Relaxation Techniques

Several relaxation techniques can help manage anxiety. These include deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation. Practicing these techniques regularly can help to reduce overall levels of anxiety.

8. Talk to Someone You Trust

Sometimes just talking about your anxiety with someone else can help to lessen its effects. Talking openly about what you’re feeling can help you to gain perspective and may also help you to come up with new coping strategies.

9. Seek Professional Help If Necessary

If your anxiety is severe or is interfering with your ability to function daily, it may be necessary to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor.

Rogue Community Health: The Road To A Healthy Life

Rogue Community Health’s behavioral health services are an invaluable resource for those struggling with anxiety and other mental issues. Our experienced counselors offer mental health services ranging from stress management to psychotherapy to help individuals find solutions to their unique needs.

We also strive to provide comprehensive care that includes emotional and physical support and referral services for additional resources in the community. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, we invite you to visit our facilities and speak with one of our knowledgeable counselors.

We aim to be the name that comes to mind when you search for behavioral health. With access to the latest research, treatments, and behavioral health services, Rogue Community Health can help guide you on your journey toward wellness.

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