06 Apr 2009 07:00 AM
Are Doctors Missing Mental Health Clues In Kids?
It's estimated that one out of every 5 children has a diagnosable mental disorder in the United States. What's worse is that millions of kids simply aren't getting the help they need to deal with it. But a new program is designed to help change that.
As a general pediatrician, Daryl Robbins will care for dozens of kids every day. From toddlers to teens, parents trust him with everything from sprains to allergies.
"We are the people that they know and we are the people that can give them some comfort, some compassion, and a lot of direction," says Robbins.
But by their own admission, there is one area where many family doctors aren't giving a lot of direction. A survey by experts at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio has found that when it comes to mental health - 54% of primary care physicians don't feel confident diagnosing depression in kids - and 85% say they're not confident diagnosing anxiety disorders…
As a general pediatrician, Daryl Robbins will care for dozens of kids every day. From toddlers to teens, parents trust him with everything from sprains to allergies.
"We are the people that they know and we are the people that can give them some comfort, some compassion, and a lot of direction," says Robbins.
But by their own admission, there is one area where many family doctors aren't giving a lot of direction. A survey by experts at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio has found that when it comes to mental health - 54% of primary care physicians don't feel confident diagnosing depression in kids - and 85% say they're not confident diagnosing anxiety disorders…

