Mercy Health Encourages Collaborative Approach to Youth Mental Health as Students Head Back to School

WARREN COUNTY, OH -- As students across Greater Cincinnati prepare for the highly anticipated return to classrooms, Mercy Health—Cincinnati is calling attention to the critical importance of prioritizing youth mental health, recognizing the ongoing national crisis affecting young people. The health care system is calling upon parents, guardians, and primary care physicians to unite in a collaborative effort to monitor and support the emotional well-being of local youth.

The transition back to school, while exciting for many, can also bring unique pressures, including academic demands, social anxieties, and changes in routine, which can exacerbate existing mental health challenges or trigger new ones. Data continues to show a significant rise in anxiety, depression, and other behavioral health concerns among adolescents and children.

Mercy Health emphasizes that primary care physicians (PCPs) play a pivotal role in early detection and intervention. Annual well-child visits, often seen as opportunities for physical check-ups and immunizations, are also crucial touchpoints for discussing mental and emotional health. These visits provide a safe space for youth to express concerns and for PCPs to screen for early warning signs.

"The mental well-being of our youth is just as vital as their physical health," said Dr. Tamara Huson, a Family Medicine physician with Mercy Health—Loveland Primary Care. "As primary care providers, we are often the first line of defense. We encourage parents and guardians to utilize annual well-child visits as an opportunity for open dialogue about mental health, as well as physical health. By sharing observations about changes in behavior, mood, sleep, or appetite, parents equip us to provide timely support, guidance, and, if necessary, connect families with specialized behavioral health services. This collaborative approach between home and healthcare is fundamental to building a resilient foundation for our children."

Mercy Health is committed to integrating behavioral health services within its primary care network, ensuring that families have accessible and comprehensive support. This integrated model facilitates seamless referrals and coordinated care, making it easier for young people to receive the help they need.

Mercy Health encourages parents, guardians, and PCPs to work together by:

• Prioritizing Regular Well-Child Visits: These appointments allow PCPs to conduct routine mental health screenings and initiate conversations about emotional well-being in a confidential setting.
• Fostering Open Communication at Home: Create an environment where children feel safe discussing their feelings, anxieties, and struggles without judgment. Encourage them to articulate what they are experiencing.
• Observing and Documenting Changes: Parents and guardians should pay close attention to significant or persistent changes in a child’s behavior, sleep patterns, appetite, academic performance, social interactions, or interest in activities they once enjoyed. Sharing these observations with a PCP is critical.
• Collaborating with PCPs: Be transparent with your child's doctor about any concerns. PCPs can offer initial guidance, behavioral strategies, and assess the need for further evaluation by a mental health specialist.
• Promoting Healthy Habits: Encourage consistent sleep schedules, nutritious eating, regular physical activity, and balanced screen time, all of which significantly impact mental health.
• Understanding School Resources: Be aware of mental health support services available through your child’s school and how they can collaborate with your primary care team.

Mercy Health—Cincinnati remains dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic care that addresses the full spectrum of community health needs, including the urgent call to support youth mental health. By working hand-in-hand, families and health care providers can empower Cincinnati’s youth to navigate the complexities of growing up and thrive in the upcoming school year and beyond. 

For more information on Mercy Health’s child and adolescent mental health services, or to schedule a well-child visit, please visit mercy.com.

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