TIPS FOR
Parents
By Amy L. Hall, Ph.D. –
Volusia County Coordinator
of Student and Government
Relations
1. Keep the lines of
communication open.
Ask questions and be
willing to listen.
2. Monitor your
student’s social
media and know who
their friends are.
3. If you have a concern,
don’t be afraid to ask
for help or guidance.
4. Be supportive, listen
and offer guidance.
5. Don’t judge.
6. Educate yourself on
the resources that
are available in your
school district and in
your community.
7. Stay Involved in your
child’s life, regardless
of their age.
Do I have to put my child on medication?
Medication is not always prescribed to treat the child’s symptoms. However,
if the doctor recommends a medication for your child, you have the right
to refuse. It is best though to discuss your concerns with the doctor. Often,
parents have pre-conceived ideas about psychotropic medications that are
untrue.
Will medication sedate my child or make my child act like a different person?
Parents are often concerned that medication will make their child
“zombie-like.” The goal of medication is not to sedate or alter your child’s
personality but to treat their symptoms so they can attain a higher level of
function.
I am divorced. What if I think my child needs services but my ex disagrees?
If you decide to seek treatment for your child, it is a good idea to involve
the other parent as much as possible. Parents do not like to feel helpless or
left out in the decisions that affect their children’s health. Also, it is helpful
to have professionals who are available to answer questions and concerns.
Sometimes when we are arguing, my child will make suicidal statements. How
do I know if the threat is serious?
When children, especially teenagers, are emotionally overwhelmed, they
may make threats to harm him/herself or others. It can be tough to discern
a real threat from blowing off steam. If you find yourself questioning the
seriousness of the statements that is a good indicator your child may need
help. It does not hurt to have a mental health screening performed. They
are free and can provide peace of mind to a parent who is afraid the child
may act upon the threats.
I think my child needs help, but I am afraid of what my family and friends will
say. Who all has to know?
It is up to you if you want to share that information with friends and
family. Some children are fine with their friends and family knowing they
receive services. Others would like that information to remain private.
What is the Florida Baker Act*?
The Baker Act protects the rights of all individuals examined or treated for
mental illness in Florida.
Criteria for involuntary exam are that the individual:
» » Appears to have a mental illness;
» » Presents a danger to self or others;
» » Refuses voluntary exam or is unable to understand need for exam is
an indicator that your child may need help. It does not hurt to have
a mental health screening performed. They are free, and can provide
peace of mind to a parent who is afraid the child may act upon
the threats.
Information for this article was provided by Halifax Health.
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