We are in unprecedented times. Kids are likely to have questions as schools close around the country. More governors and mayors are asking residents to ‘shelter in place.’ We are in the throes of the Coronavirus pandemic. Things are evolving daily and no one knows how long we will need to be practicing social distancing. …
Anxiety
How to Talk to Kids about Anxiety
Parenting a child with anxiety can be a lot of work. I have seen families who “walk on eggshells” or have stopped going out in public or doing fun things because of their children’s strong emotions. Parents need to know how to talk to their kids about anxiety as a way to open the door …
Fluoxetine: Medication Fact Sheet for Families
Doctors may sometimes prescribe fluoxetine for children or teens after a diagnosis of anxiety or depression. Families often have lingering questions about treatment after the visit. Having a handout or reference sheet to refer to and share with other family members can help ease stress. Anxiety and depression is a common in childhood and can …
Escitalopram: Medication Fact Sheet
For those of you who have seen my med fact sheets for ADHD and mood disorders, this is the third installment for the selective serotonin uptake inhibitors/SSRIs. Escitalopram is also known as commonly known as Lexapro (brand name). Escitalopram is used as a second line agent for pediatric depression and anxiety. It is NOT approved …
Mood Medication Handout: Sertraline
This is the second of my new handout series: Medications and Mood: Handouts for Patient Education. This time it is for Sertraline, another Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI), that is commonly used to treat anxiety and depression. In case you missed it, my prior post on Fluoxetine explored SSRIs and the Black Box Warning, check …
Anxiety & Kids: How Parents Can Become Their Child’s Emotion Coach!
In my clinic, I tend to see a lot of children for anxiety. They don’t come to me saying, “Dr. Bauer, I feel anxious or worried” rather they are being seen because they have mood swings and tantrums. Or they cannot sleep. They cannot separate from their parent. They may just clam up. Sometimes they …
ADHD Medication Handout: Atomoxetine
After careful discussion with the child’s pediatrician about whether medication should be a part of the ADHD treatment plan, families and the pediatrician will need to decide what medication is best. The discussion should include a few key elements to help guide the decision: The age of the child Whether the child has tried any …
Dealing with Feeling…Worried by Isabel Thomas
Ever have a child who complains about headaches or stomach aches on school days, feels sick on test days and may even cry or withdraw when faced with new situations or challenges? Or have a preschooler with tantrums and has mood swings? It might be anxiety. Unfortunately, it is not common for kids to tell …