Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in the Primary Care Setting

This presentation will provide clinicians with essential tools to identify and manage depression and anxiety in children and adolescents. With rising prevalence and earlier onset of mental health conditions in youth, early recognition and intervention are vital. Attendees will review current data on prevalence, risk factors, and demographic trends, highlighting the importance of timely assessment.

Learners will gain skills in using validated screening tools and assessment techniques to evaluate pediatric mental health concerns. The presentation will also cover how depression and anxiety symptoms differ in children compared to adults, helping clinicians improve diagnostic accuracy.

Evidence-based treatment options, including pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions, will be discussed. Participants will learn when to initiate treatment, when to refer for specialized care, and how to tailor approaches to individual needs. A key focus will be on family involvement in treatment planning. Strategies for effective communication and collaboration with parents and guardians will be presented, emphasizing shared decision-making and long-term support.