Depression 

Depression affects approximately 5% of children and adolescents. If you suspect that your child may be suffering from depression please consult the resources below for more information and feel free to contact their appropriate grade-level counselor.

Depression Resources

• American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry- Depression Resource Center

  Here you will find information about the signs and symptoms of depression, FAQs, facts for family and more.

• Psychology Today- Telling the Difference between Moodiness and Depression in Teens

  It is often difficult to differentiate between typical teen mood swings and signs of a more serious issue. This article will provide you with 5 red flags that could be indicative of a problem.

• Mental Health America- Depression in Teens

  This site provides useful information related to the recognition and treatment of depression along with warning signs of suicidality in depressed teens.

• HelpGuide.org- Teenage Depression: A Guide for Teachers and Parent

  Here you will find tips for talking to a depressed teenager, signs and symptoms of depression, the differences between adult and teenage depression and much more.

   

Drug and Alcohol Use

• Unfortunately, many children are first exposed to drugs and alcohol during their middle and high school years. Educating yourself on this topic and talking to your children can help prevent drug and alcohol use and abuse.

Drug and Alcohol Resources

• NIAAA for Middle School- Info on Alcohol and Resisting Peer Pressure

  This website is designed to educate young teens about alcohol use and how they can resist peer pressure. 

• DrugFree.org- Preventing Teen Abuse of Prescription Drugs

  This fact sheet provides information about prescription drug abuse in teenagers. 

• Time to Act- Teen Drug Intervention

  Learn strategies to intervene if you suspect or know that your child is using drugs or alcohol. 

• National Institute on Drug Abuse- Preventing Drug Abuse

  Why is adolescence a critical time for preventing drug addiction?

Anxiety

• Anxiety can be a normal reaction to the stress and pressures our children experience on a daily basis. The links below will provide you with helpful information to determine if your child may be experiencing more than this typical anxiety and what you can do to help them.

Anxiety Resources

• Anxiety and Depression Association of America- Types of Anxiety Disorders

  Anxiety can manifest in various forms- this link will provide you with more information on the types on anxiety that children may experience. 

• Anxiety and Depression Association of America- School Anxiety/ Refusal

  Information and tips for parents of children that demonstate school-related anxiety and school refusal. 

• AnxietyBC- Talking to Your Child About Anxiety

  Learn more about how to talk to your child about the topic of anxiety. 

Grief and Loss

• Dealing with grief and loss is difficult at any age, but it can have a tremendous emotional impact on children that manifests both at home and school. While the counselors at Keith Valley are committed to supporting students struggling with grief and loss during the school day, the links below may provide helpful tips for families to utilize at home.

Grief and Loss Resources

• Helping Children Cope with Grief and Loss

  Here you will find tips for helping children through this diffcult time. 

• Mental Health America- Helping Children Cope with Loss

  Information on the signs of grieving in children and adolescents as well as tips to help them. 

• Child Mind- How to Help Your Child Cope with Tragedy

  Provides tips on how parents can aid their children in processing grief. 

• Safe Harbor Program for Grieving Children, Teens and Families

  Learn more about Abington Memorial Hospital's program and groups specially designed to provide ongoing grief and support. 

Local Community Resources

• The information provided below, has been given by NHS Human Services of Montgomery County as an informational courtesy only. Therapist or agency apperance on this list does not imply endorsement or specific recommendation by NHS Human Services of Montgomery County, Hatboro-Horsham School District or its representatives.