(COLORADO SPRINGS) — On Tuesday, April 23, Children’s Hospital Colorado will host a virtual town hall to discuss concerns as mental health issues among children in the state have nearly doubled since 2018. We held a hall meeting.
Children’s Hospital Colorado is leading the way in tackling the state’s youth mental health crisis. We want parents and caregivers to understand that they are not alone in a crisis.
“They might have a big test coming up and a final report to submit. ‘I got into a fight with a friend.’ The stress is there and we need to do something about it.” said Dr. Marissa Nunez Moreno.
With growing interest in the mental health of children and teens, Children’s is launching its first-ever Town Center this year to provide parents with an opportunity to learn about the alarming state of youth mental health in Colorado. Hosted a hall meeting.
Dr. Ashley Hayduke said there are many signs and symptoms. “Symptoms can be physical or mental-based, and things like nervousness, restlessness, and nervousness are all signs, and people can have them as well. ‘I felt imminent danger and panicked,’ Hayduke said.
According to Children’s, poor mental health rates among pre-teens rose from about 8% in 2018 to 18%, prompting the hospital to declare a mental health emergency.
Doctors say anxiety is one of the biggest problems for children aged 11 to 16.
“We just get into a cycle where we start thinking about this and that and it becomes really hard to concentrate as a result of actually doing homework, running track, meeting some people. Sleep can be difficult,” Dr. Hayduke said.
Fortunately, doctors say there are ways to help if you notice someone having a panic attack.
“Another great option is grounding techniques, which use your senses to remind you of the present moment in your environment, which can help give your brain something to focus on while actually calming your body’s actions. ,” said Dr. Hayduke.
In a depressing milestone, suicide is the leading cause of death for young people in Colorado. Dr. Colette Fisher reminds parents that while it is important to help and provide resources to care for children, it is important for adults to remember that they are not responsible for suicide. He said he would like to have it.
“One adult wants to be free from the pressure of having to solve everything for one child. We all want to think of ourselves as a protective element in our children’s lives. But… If my child breaks his leg, I’m not a doctor. I don’t know how to put a cast on it,” Dr. Fisher said.
If you or someone you know is in trouble or in crisis, help is available. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached 24/7 by phone, chat, or text. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
