Topics: community trauma | Disaster | Psychological First Aide | Red Cross | social cohesion

As the pandemic demonstrates, no one of us can avoid community disasters. Whether it is a fire, a storm, a terror attack, or a virus, you need to understand how communities respond and what you can do to help. Use our quick and practical guides to the stages of community social cohesion and the parts of psychological first aide and learn how you can join the effort without creating a disruption while also taking care of yourself.

Topics: adolescents | Antidepressants | children | Depression | emergent suicidality

For 16 years, since the FDA black box warning about suicidality with antidepressants, our community has been quoting data that downplays this concern. We were wrong. We were deceived. Antidepressants can be lifesaving, but there really is a duty to warn. Drs. Martha Ignazewski and Glen Speilmans talk with us about what went on and how to talk about it with our families.

Topics: Computer addiction | electronic use | Free Articles | videogaming addiction

So many families struggle with videogaming addiction and other overuse of electronics, maybe more so in the current pandemic. Joe Dilley teaches us how to address this perennial problem, offering a simple way to remember how families can set up their limits in a way that pitches the child toward better self-control.

Topics: atamoxetine | Dyslexia | methylphenidate | phonemic awareness | Phonics | rapid naming | Reading disorder | structured literacy

Many of us have had very little training about the specifics of reading disorders ie dyslexia. Learn what it is and what to do about this problem, which typically lies underneath the surface of the secondary psychiatric impact that obscures our ability to recognize and address it. Bet you didn’t know that there are actually medication studies on treating dyslexia too.

Topics: adolescents | Depression | Oral Contraceptives | teens

We worry that oral contraceptives impact mood, particularly in adolescents who are prone to depression and other mood disorders. This research review on the Dutch TRAILS (Tracking Adolescents’ Individual Lives Survey) helps balance our decision making so that we avoid either extreme of universally counseling against their use nor dismissing the possible impact of OCs on mood.

Topics: ADHD | Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder | Vitamin D

There are many fairly benign interventions that are tried in child and adolescent mental health, and a large number are specifically aimed at treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). One such treatment is the use of vitamin D. But is it helpful, and if so, what dosages are safe to use? This article uses current research to address these questions.

Topics: Antidepressants | Antipsychotics | Lithium | Mood Stabilizers | Psychotropic medication | Side Effects | Stimulants

When we choose medications, we typically think that we are paying attention to risks and benefits. But what happens when we just look through the lens of side effects? An entirely different picture emerges of what medications might be the better picks. You will be surprised and intrigued by this review of a very helpful study that will probably change your prescribing patterns.

Topics: CME Post-Test

The post-test for this issue is available for one year after the publication date to subscribers. By successfully completing the test you will be awarded a certificate for 2 CME credits.