Children’s Evidence Based Treatments (EBT) are mental health treatments that are backed by research studies and scientific evidence that show effectiveness in treating and reducing mental illness symptoms in children.
Children often show mental health symptoms through behaviors, said Elizabeth Vutci, Coordinator of Community and Behavioral Health. “When these behaviors extend into weeks or months, or begin to interfere with school or home life, EBT’s can be very effective in reducing symptoms.” Symptoms in children may look different depending on the child’s age.
Young children (Birth-age 7) may exhibit the following symptoms or behaviors:
Older children (Age 8-18) may exhibit the following symptoms or behaviors:
Common symptoms in children of all ages can be frequent stomachaches or headaches with no known medical cause, problems with concentration or focus, academic struggles, sleep disturbances (too much or too little) or frequent nightmares, frequent tantrums or extreme irritability much of the time, and exaggerated startle response.
MCCMH offers an array of Evidence Based Treatments to meet the needs of children who are experiencing mental health crises or symptoms, using a family centered approach. MCCMH offers the following Evidence Based Treatments:
Stigma often prevents people from seeking care. There are several ways that we can actively reduce stigma surrounding children’s mental health. Vutci says, first, it is important for parents to educate themselves about mental health—what it is, why it is important, what to do if someone is experiencing a mental health symptom, and how to discuss mental health with their children.
“Second, talking about our own experiences with mental health reduces the stigma that is often associated with it. Third, understand that mental health can have a range of symptoms from mild to severe, but recovery is not only possible, but frequent for most individuals. Lastly, listening, being supportive and non-judgmental can help reduce stigma.”
For more information about mental health resources and children’s EBT, call us at 855-99-MCCMH or visit mccmh.net.