Mental Health

Anyone can face mental health challenges, including children. For families in and around Las Vegas, Nevada, Mimi Kuriakose, MD, is an outstanding resource for mental health support through her work at Las Vegas Pediatrics. Booking a visit is as easy as making a quick phone call or spending a few moments online, so don’t delay.

What is the difference between mental health and behavioral health?

Mental health involves your emotional state. It includes brain health issues, cognitive function, and a range of disorders that affect how you feel, perceive, and relate to others. 

Behavioral health focuses on how your behaviors impact your mental and physical health. It includes your lifestyle, reactions, habits, and coping strategies. 

Your mental health often plays a causal factor in why you choose certain behaviors. At the same time, certain behaviors can have a direct impact on your mental health. 

Dr. Kuriakose has extensive training and experience in both pediatric mental health and behavioral health. She understands how to work with kids and help them develop the skills  needed to thrive, no matter the challenge faced. 

How do I know when to bring my child in for a mental health assessment?

Kids go through so many changes as they move through the phases of childhood, and not every rough patch is a sign of mental health issues. 

Some of the signs of mental health conditions in children include:

• Persistent or extreme sadness
• Losing or gaining weight
• Sleeping more or less than usual
• Difficulty concentrating
• Problems at school or in social settings
• Drastic mood swings or personality changes
• Withdrawing from friends and family

If you notice these changes in your child, consider reaching out to Las Vegas Pediatrics to schedule a mental health assessment. 

What kinds of mental health treatments are available?

Dr. Kuriakose begins by performing an in-depth assessment to learn more about your child’s specific challenges. This gives her the information needed to make a mental health or behavioral health diagnosis.

Talk therapy is a great way to help kids move through mental health issues. Working with a therapist provides a safe space for kids to work through issues and receive professional guidance. 

Some forms of talk therapy focus on helping kids build better coping skills and develop greater resilience. Others help kids identify disordered thought patterns and replace those thoughts with more helpful ones. 

Medication might be part of your child’s mental health treatment. The decision to begin drug therapy is never an easy one and isn’t made hastily. 

When you’re ready to move forward, call the office to find a time that fits your schedule. Online booking is also an option and is fast and easy.