Behavioral & Mental Health News from CHOP

Researchers Find Association Between Financial Strain Due to COVID-19 and Depression
CHOP researchers found a link between depressive symptoms and pandemic-related income loss and financial strain, independent of anxiety.
Pediatric Reflections: Offering Guidance to Families of Autistic Youth Who Want to Drive
A recent CHOP study found that newly licensed drivers on the autism spectrum have similar—or even lower—per-driver rates of crash involvement than their non-autistic peers.
GI Psychologist Is Part of Our Team
Psychologists with specialty training in GI disorders help patients and their families better understand how a child’s feelings, fears and emotions can impact their chronic GI condition and vice versa.
Using Digital Health Tools to Screen Children for Suicide Risk
CHOP expert leading the effort to develop a chatbot to screen children for suicide risk in a more efficient and scalable manner.
Pediatric Reflections: Could it Be Depression?
The subtleties of depression in children and adolescents can be vague to both parents and providers.
Newly Licensed Autistic Drivers Crash Less Than Other Young Drivers
Crash-involved autistic drivers were half as likely to crash due to speeding, but more than three times more likely to crash when making a left- or U-turn, suggesting need for tailored training

Battling Mental Fatigue
Nine months into the COVID-19 pandemic, everyone is exhausted. But you can battle mental fatigue and find your groove again with some tips from CHOP.
Study Reveals Disparities in Key Early Intervention Referrals for Developmental Delays
Improved screening practices could decrease disparities by increasing referrals for developmental delays in traditionally underserved communities.
Study Finds Signs of Altruism in People’s COVID-19 Worries, Putting Concerns about Others First
A new study demonstrates that people are more concerned about unknowingly spreading COVID-19 than getting sick themselves.

Racism and Outside Influences
Even if you’re not talking about racism, your child is learning about it. Take the lead on your child’s anti-racist education with these tips and resources.