A: According to Cecilia Astorga-Switzer, M.D. Chief Medical Officer at the Children’s Center in Detroit, children’s mental health issues are real, common and treatable. One in five children can have some form of mental health diagnosis, yet fewer than two out of three receive proper treatment. Untreated, these can lead to disruptions in the home, school and community. When a child’s behavior is disrupting their environment, an evaluation with a mental health professional may provide needed insight. Signs that a child may be experiencing difficulty include a decrease in school performance, poor grades, nightmares, difficulty paying attention, depression and sadness, unusually aggressive behaviors towards themselves or others. Early identification can help a child get back on track towards reaching his or her full potential.

The Children’s Center, a Detroit fixture for nearly 85 years, has caring professionals who can evaluate children, provide testing and appropriate evidence-based mental and behavioral health treatment.  In addition they make referrals to appropriate medical, dental and mental health specialists through collaborative partnerships throughout Greater Detroit. The Children’s Center works to empower more than 7,500 children and families annually to shape their own futures.

To learn more, please contact Dr. Astorga at 313.262.0993 or castorga@thechildrenscenter.com. If you know someone who would benefit from this training, please share this post.

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