Pediatric Mental and Behavioral Health in Practice

Pediatric Mental and Behavioral Health in Practice: A Case-Based Guide is a practical, primary care–focused resource that helps clinicians confidently screen for, diagnose, and begin managing common pediatric mental and behavioral health concerns—including anxiety, depression, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)—as they present in everyday practice. Part 1 uses realistic case presentations to walk readers through differential diagnosis, patient evaluation (with appropriate screening tools), and step-by-step management. Each chapter ends with a concise "Lessons Learned" section, and select cases address multiple, overlapping concerns to mirror the complexity of real pediatric visits. Part 2 provides condition-specific guidance for the most common mental and behavioral health presentations in pediatric primary care. Chapters summarize diagnostic criteria, evidence-based treatment options, and practical medication considerations—when to initiate therapy, how to monitor response, and how to collaborate with mental health professionals—ending with "Lessons Learned." To promote active learning, chapters include challenge questions that invite readers to pause and consider diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment decisions before moving forward. Key takeaways and practical phrasing are emphasized in highlighted "Communication Pearl" and "Keep in Mind" boxes throughout. Topics include Case Presentations Somatic Symptoms and Panic Disorder Separation Anxiety Perfectionism Substance Use Autonomic Dysfunction and Depression Depression of Chronic Disease Irritable Mood Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Learning Difficulties Suicidality and Eating Disorder Symptom Management and Initial Treatment Anxiety Disorder Depressive Disorder Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder