Parent Magazine Volusia/Flagler June 2019 | Page 26

Children’s Mental Health What if my child is angry, depressed, has anxiety, is being bullied or just not acting like him/herself lately? The first step is to bring your child in for a free screening. Community Hospitals provides free screenings that are conducted by a Registered Nurse or a Masters Level Prepared Therapist. After you register, you and your child will meet together with the screener, followed by one-on-one sessions with the screener. Once all of the information is gathered, the screener discusses and reviews the data collected with the psychiatrist. The psychiatrist then determines the best course of treatment for your child, which could include any of the following: » » Participation in Outpatient Services » » Participation in a Day Treatment Program – this service is only provided by referral from the Psychiatrist » » Admittance to an Inpatient Program » » They might determine that your child is just having a bad day What if I fear that my child may hurt him/herself or others? If you ever feel that your child is going to hurt him/ herself or others, or if his/her behavior is out of control or dangerous, the first thing you need to do is call 911. This decision can be extremely difficult because there is a “fear of the unknown” factor like what will happen to our children if we call for help. However, the thing to remember is that you don’t have to wait until your child is at the point of endangering him/herself or others, you can call for help at any time. Below is an overview of what to expect when you call 911: » » When you call 911, a law enforcement official will be sent to assess the situation. » » If the officer doesn’t feel like your child meet the requirements for the Baker Act, he/she may recommend that you take your child to the Emergency Department or other location for a screening. They may recommend calling a therapist or Psychiatrist. » » If the officer feels your child is of danger to him/ herself or others, and could also have a mental illness, they will institute the Baker Act and take your child to Behavioral Services or to the Emergency Department. » » Parents, it is extremely important you follow your child in a vehicle as the law states that the officer is only able to transport your child in their car. Your child may be handcuffed, however this is not mandatory but, at the discretion of the officer. The first responder has to do what is necessary for the safety of everyone involved. We are telling you this not to scare you or upset you, but to prepare you. 26 | V O L U S I A A N D F L A G L E R H E A LT H A N D W E L L N E S S M A G A Z I N E