Behavioral & Mental Health News from CHOP

CHOP Joins National Coalition to “Sound the Alarm for Kids”
Rates of depression and suicide have been rising in children, teens, and young adults fr two decades. Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States, 1 in 5 children under age 18 experienced a mental health condition. The "Sound the Alarm" campaign aims to break down barriers to mental health access.

Talking to Your Child About Suicide
Children and teens are at greater risk for suicide now than before COVID-19. Learn how to start the conversation about mental health with your child.
CHOP Researchers Show Key Differences in Emotion, Adaptation Skills of Children with Autism in School Settings
Study is largest to date to look at “real world” school conditions and how autistic children control their thoughts and emotions.
CHOP Researchers: Pandemic Worsening a Global Youth Mental Health Crisis
CHOP researchers authored an editorial in JAMA Pediatrics on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on youth mental health.

Access to Greenspace Associated with Improved Mental Health in Early Days of Pandemic
CHOP and Penn researchers have found an association between greenspace and improved mental health during the first six months of the pandemic.

CHOP Researchers Find Link Between Child Temperament and Eating Behaviors
CHOP researchers have found an association between child temperament and eating behaviors, including eating speed, responsiveness to the sight or smell of food, and satiety.

Separation Anxiety: What’s Normal and When to Worry
Separation anxiety affects 3% of children and 8% of teens. Two CHOP doctors offer tips to help both groups better adapt to changing situations.
CHOP Psychiatrist-in-Chief, Dr. Tami Benton, Elected President of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Dr. Benton recognized for her dedication to childhood mental health, elected to head the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
ADHD Medications Associated with Reduced Risk of Suicidality in Children with Significant Behavioral Symptoms
CHOP researchers have found ADHD medications may lower suicide risk in children with hyperactivity, oppositional defiance and other behavioral disorders.

Tackling Irrational Fears in Children and Teens
CHOP psychologists offer strategies to help children recognize their fears, separate the rational from the irrational, and how to deal with or overcome each.