November 2018

Behavioral Health Resources for School-aged Children

A recent article in U.S. News & World Report, states “Rising rates of mental health and behavioral issues are prompting worry – and action.” It’s reported that “nearly 1 in 5 kids in the U.S. experiences a mental, emotional or behavioral disorder like ADHD in a given year.” In addition, “the number of kids ages 5 to 17 hospitalized for suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts has more than doubled since 2008,” according to a recent Vanderbilt-led study analyzing data from 2008 to 2015. Rising rates of anxiety, autism spectrum disorder and aggression are also worrisome.

The article notes that primary care providers (PCP) are being used more and more to help with mental health screening and treatment due to the lack of specialized providers in certain areas of the country. For pediatricians, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends “depression screening for all kids starting at age 12, although experts say screening could begin as early as 6 if there is a concern.”

Mentalhealthtx.org
As PCP’s concerns about screening and treating behavioral health increase, Mentalhealthtx.org is providing resources such as a Behavioral Health Resource Guide for School-aged Children. They help increase awareness of educational opportunities, services and support for school-aged children with mental and behavioral health needs; strengthen community partnerships; and build upon and leverage existing resources.

Texas Health Steps (THSteps)
Mental health screenings for behavioral, social and emotional development are required at each THSteps checkup for patients from birth to 20 years old. On the THSteps website, you can find information on anticipatory guidance for mental health screenings, questionnaires to use during THSteps checkups and other resources that may be beneficial to your practice.

Magellan^®
Don’t forget the additional resources Magellan offers in the Behavioral Health Toolkit for Medical Providers. 

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) contracts with Magellan Behavioral Health, Inc. (“Magellan”), an independent company, to administer BCBSTX’s managed mental health program.