Needs Statement

As many as 20 percent of children and adults have significant mental and behavioral health concerns at any given time. Exposure to a disaster like Hurricane Harvey and the trauma that comes with it often exacerbates pre-existing issues and/or brings new issues to the surface, with post-traumatic stress often presenting as “other” mental illnesses, including anxiety, ADHD, depression, school conduct issues or even physical illness. The result is a large and complex problem that must be addressed. During January of 2021, Texas Children's Hospital department of Psychology disseminated a Behavioral Health Integration Needs Assessment. Respondents reported having interests in filling knowledge deficiencies in Disruptive Behavior, ADHD, Developmental Delays (ASD, PDD), Academic and Learning Problems, Anxiety and Mood, Weight Management and Nutrition, amongst others.

This activity will discuss the role of medical personnel in understanding of the psychosocial aspects of healthy eating when addressing weight related concerns (over or underweight) in children and adolescents.  This activity seeks to educate providers regarding the psychoeducation on the types of questions, body language and tone to use when evaluating for psychosocial concerns and have the tools necessary to effectively evaluate a patient’s need for a higher level of care (such as a referral to a mental health provider). There will be time dedicated to answer questions related to Psychosocial Aspects of Weight Management.