providers at leitchfield pediatrics

Chronic illnesses are difficult to live with, especially for children. Suffering from a chronic illness can affect a child’s mental health, leading to feelings of depression. The Providers at Leitchfield Pediatrics in Leitchfield, KY, provide a wide range of pediatric services, including managing depression and chronic illnesses.

What You Need To Know About Depression in Children

Chronic illnesses such as asthma or heart conditions can make a child less active. The child may feel left out and unable to play with other children. A child can feel isolated and alone. All of these feelings can lead to depression.

Common signs of depression to look for in children include:

• Feeling sad or irritable on most days
• Not wanting to do fun activities
• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
• Often feeling tired, tense and restless
• Withdrawing from family and friends

If you notice any of the signs of depression, your child can benefit from a screening for depression administered by your child’s pediatrician.

Your pediatrician will evaluate whether changes need to be made in the treatment of your child’s chronic illness so your child can feel better. Your pediatrician will also evaluate whether your child needs treatment for depression. Some of the treatments for depression include:

• Medication therapy to limit feelings of depression
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy to help your child reframe negative thoughts into more positive ones
• Behavioral therapy to help your child learn to cope with events in a healthy way
• Family therapy to help family members support your child when he or she is depressed
• Lifestyle modification to help your child feel less stressed

Want To Know More About Depression and Chronic Illnesses in Children?

Talk with the experts to learn more about addressing depression in children with chronic illnesses. Call The Providers at Leitchfield Pediatrics in Leitchfield, KY. You can reach them in the office by calling (270) 259-5641, so call today.