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In Crisis?

Communicating With Your Pediatrician or Family Doctor

Parent and child together during a pediatrician check up

Talking to your child’s doctor about their behavior and mental health is important. Here’s a guide to help you share your concerns effectively.

  1. Keep a Record: Before your appointment, write down the changes you’ve noticed in your child’s mood, behavior, sleep, appetite, or social interactions. Include specific examples and when they happened.
  2. Identify Main Concerns: Make a list of the behaviors that worry you the most, like withdrawal from activities, frequent outbursts, or sleep problems. This will help you stay focused during the conversation.
  3. Consider Your Child’s View: If your child is old enough, talk to them about how they’ve been feeling. This can give you more insight to share with the doctor.
  1. Be Specific: Start by sharing your observations. For example, “I’ve noticed that my child seems very withdrawn and is having trouble sleeping.”
  2. Stay Calm: Express your concerns without blaming anyone. Use “I” statements, like, “I’m worried because my child’s sudden behavior changes are affecting their daily life and school.”
  3. Give Context: Mention any recent changes in your child’s life, like family or school issues, that might be causing stress. This can help the doctor understand what might be going on.
  4. Ask for Insights: Ask the doctor if these behaviors could be signs of a mental health issue and what steps should be taken next, such as evaluations or referrals to specialists.
  5. Inquire About Resources: See if the doctor can recommend child psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors, or support groups. Ask if any additional tests or assessments are needed.
  6. Talk About Treatment Options: If the doctor thinks there is a mental health issue, ask about the different treatment options. Discuss possible therapies, lifestyle changes, or other interventions.
  7. Clarify Follow-Up: Make sure you understand the plan for follow-up. Ask when you should check back in with the doctor and what signs to watch for that might need further attention.
  1. Follow Through: If the doctor recommends more evaluations or a specialist, make those appointments and follow the suggested treatments or strategies.
  2. Keep Communication Open: Stay in touch with your doctor. Let them know about any changes you notice, and don’t hesitate to reach out if new concerns arise.
  3. Support Your Child: Keep offering emotional support and understanding to your child. Your involvement is important to their well-being.

Sample Communication

Sample communication for talking with your pediatrician or family doctor:

  • "I've noticed my child has been very anxious and isn’t interested in activities they used to enjoy. Can we talk about what might be happening?"
  • "My child has been struggling with sleep and is very irritable. I’m worried this could be more than just a phase. What do you think we should do?"