All posts by : Dr. Z

Raising a child isn’t always a seamless journey, and challenges often arise from corners we least expect. For many parents, understanding and supporting their child’s sexual orientation is an important and natural part of nurturing their growth. But what happens when a coparent doesn’t offer that same level of support and understanding?

Imagine Sarah, a loving mother to an incredible teenage son, Alex. Her world turned upside down one rainy afternoon when Alex nervously confided in her about his sexual orientation, tears battling against the hope in his eyes. Sarah embraced him, showering him with love and acceptance, firmly reassuring him that his family had his back.

Yet, in their blended family, the reaction wasn’t unanimous. Alex’s father, while still a present and involved parent, struggled with the news. His reluctance to fully support his son stemmed from fear and misunderstanding dictated by deeply-rooted beliefs.

Sarah faced an inner turmoil. How could she bridge the gap between her ex-husband and her son? Here’s what she did to foster understanding and support.

First, Sarah took time to educate herself. She knew that preparation and knowledge would arm her with the tools needed to navigate these tricky waters. She immersed herself in books, articles, and forums related to understanding and supporting LGBTQ+ youth.

Next, she chose communication over confrontation. In those heated, uncertain moments, she shared resources with her ex-husband, focusing on the impacts of support and rejection on a child’s mental health. She invited him to witness stories from other parents and professionals, gently guiding him to see beyond his own fears.

Sarah also made it a priority to create a safe space for Alex. While waiting for his father to come around, Alex needed reassurance. By involving LGBTQ+ positive parenting groups, and seeking counseling support, Sarah helped Alex see that his worth isn’t dependent on another’s acceptance.

Most importantly, Sarah practiced patience. Coming to terms with a child’s identity can be a journey for some parents. While unwavering in her support for Alex, she also gave his father the time needed to reflect and adapt. In time, seeing Alex thrive in his authentic self began to shift his father’s viewpoint, bringing ripples of transformation in their family dynamic.

It pays to remember that no parent is without faults. Navigating a child’s sexual orientation within a co-parenting framework can be challenging. But by leading with love, showing steadfast support, and facilitating open dialogue, any parent can create a brighter future for their child, even if it takes a little time for everyone else to catch up.

For parents in Sarah’s shoes, know this— the journey might be bumpy, but by being the safe harbor your child needs, you are already making a world of difference. Stand strong, equipped with patience and compassion. Your unwavering support is not just a lifeline for your child; it’s a beacon of hope for a more understanding and inclusive tomorrow.

In the journey of parenting, there are moments of joy and there are moments of heartache. One of those tender moments comes when children have to bid farewell to their school friends who are moving to different schools. A parent’s instinct is to protect their child from any form of sadness or anxiety. But it’s crucial to remember that with the right guidance, your child can navigate this experience and come out stronger.

The art of saying goodbye is a valuable life lesson, one that will equip your child with emotional resilience. Start by preparing them gently for the transition. Encourage open conversations where they can express their feelings. “I feel sad,” “I will miss my friends,” and “I am worried about making new friends” are all valid emotions. Reassure them that it’s okay to feel this way.

Engage in activities that would help your child remember their friends fondly. Creating memory keepsakes such as scrapbooks with photos, notes, and drawings can be a comforting reminder of the good times. This not only keeps the memories alive but also serves as a tangible anchor they can come back to when they miss their friends.

Teach them the importance of staying connected. Technology, when used wisely, can be a blessing. Help them set up regular video calls or write letters and emails. Encouraging your child to maintain friendships despite the geographical barriers will give them a sense of continuity and help lessen the blow of separation.

Another important aspect is to nurture the excitement of new beginnings. Acknowledge the bittersweet feelings but also highlight the opportunities that a new school year can bring. New friends, new activities, and new experiences await. Foster a sense of curiosity and adventure.

Modeling behavior is key. If your child sees you handling goodbyes with grace and optimism, they are more likely to mirror those behaviors. It can be helpful to share your own experiences of saying goodbye and the new friendships and opportunities that followed.

Lastly, reassure them that it’s perfectly normal for friendships to evolve. While some friends come into our lives for a season, others stay for a lifetime. And every friend leaves a unique imprint on our hearts.

As a parent, it’s your role to guide your child through these moments with empathy and strength. Saying goodbye is never easy, but with your support, your child will learn to embrace transitions with an open heart and a resilient spirit.

As challenging as it may be, understanding and accepting a diagnosis of major depressive disorder in a child is essential for their well-being and the whole family. Here’s a guide to help you understand this condition and support your child in the best way possible.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that major depressive disorder, also known as clinical depression, is a serious mental health condition that can affect anyone, including children. It goes beyond just feeling sad or down and can have a significant impact on a child’s emotions, behaviors, and daily functioning.

Common symptoms of major depressive disorder in children may include persistent feelings of sadness, irritability, withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and difficulty concentrating. If you notice these signs in your child, it’s crucial to seek professional help from a mental health specialist.

Receiving a diagnosis of major depressive disorder for your child can be overwhelming and stressful, but it’s important to remember that it is not a reflection of your parenting or something you caused. Clinical depression is a real medical condition, and there are effective treatments available to help manage it.

One of the first steps in managing major depressive disorder in children is to establish a strong support system within the family and seek therapy or counseling for the child. Therapy can help them understand and cope with their emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms. In some cases, medication may also be recommended by a mental health professional.

In addition to professional treatment, it’s important to create a supportive and understanding environment at home. This may involve open communication, encouragement, and patience. It’s essential for parents to listen to their children, validate their feelings, and provide them with love and reassurance.

Overall, understanding major depressive disorder in children is a process that takes time, patience, and support. By seeking professional help, educating yourself about the condition, and providing unconditional love and support to your child, you can navigate this challenging journey with confidence. Remember, you are not alone, and there is hope for a brighter future for your child.

As a parent, it can be a challenge to navigate conversations with your child’s school about their gender identity. You want to ensure that your child feels supported and understood, while also respecting the perspectives and abilities of their teachers and administration. Here are some tips on how to approach these conversations in a thoughtful and respectful way.

1. Educate yourself: Before speaking with your child’s school, take the time to educate yourself about gender identity. This will not only help you better understand your child’s experience, but it will also allow you to approach the conversation with confidence and clarity.
2. Choose the right time and place: When discussing your child’s gender identity with their school, it’s important to choose an appropriate time and place. Schedule a meeting with your child’s teacher or school administration in advance, and be prepared to have an open and honest conversation.
3. Be open and honest: When speaking with your child’s school about their gender identity, be open and honest about your concerns and questions. This will help to create a supportive and understanding environment, and will allow for a more productive conversation.
4. Listen and ask questions: It’s important to listen to the perspectives of your child’s teachers and administration. Ask questions and seek to understand their approach to supporting students through gender identity. This will help to build a collaborative and respectful relationship with the school.
5. Offer resources and support: If you have resources or information that may be helpful to your child’s school, don’t hesitate to share them. This could include books, articles, or organizations that specialize in supporting transgender and non-binary individuals.

Remember, the goal of these conversations is to create a supportive and affirming environment for your child. By approaching these discussions with an open mind and thoughtful tone, you can work with your child’s school to ensure that they feel understood and supported as they navigate their gender identity.

For parents, ensuring the well-being and development of their child is of paramount importance. Autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social interactions and communication, can sometimes go undiagnosed in childhood, leaving parents wondering if their child’s symptoms were missed by professionals. This article aims to shed light on how experts can overlook an autism diagnosis in children, leading to later diagnosed in adulthood. By understanding the challenges faced by professionals and being aware of potential signs, parents can proactively address any concerns.

1. The Complexity of Autism Diagnosis:

Diagnosing autism is a complex task that involves observing behavior pattern and assessing social interactions. However, early signs of autism may not be immediately evident or might be attributed to other developmental delays or behavioral issues. Moreover, autism presents differently in each individual, further complicating the diagnostic process.

2. Masking and Camouflaging:

Children with autism may develop coping mechanisms to imitate typical behaviors, a phenomenon called “masking” or “camouflaging.” These techniques, while helping them blend in, can confuse professionals, who might overlook underlying autistic traits. As a result, children might not receive an accurate diagnosis until later in life when their coping strategies become less effective or are recognized as atypical.

3. Gender Differences and Diagnostic Bias:

Autism is more commonly diagnosed in males, leading professionals to sometimes overlook or misinterpret symptoms in females. Girls may exhibit different patterns of behavior, making it harder to recognize the signs of autism. Consequently, females tend to receive their diagnosis much later, often during adulthood.

4. Evolving Diagnostic Criteria:

Over time, diagnostic criteria for autism have expanded and become more refined. Children who were evaluated using older criteria might have missed receiving a diagnosis due to narrower definitions of the disorder. Updated standards ensure that the current assessments consider a broader range of symptoms and behaviors.

5. Developmental Variation and Late-Onset Symptoms:

Some individuals with autism exhibit relatively typical development in early childhood, only to experience noticeable challenges or regression in later years. This late-onset can further complicate the diagnostic process, leading to missed diagnoses during childhood.

Understanding why professionals may miss an autism diagnosis in childhood, only to diagnose in later in adulthood, can alleviate concerns for parents. Autism diagnosis is a nuanced task that requires careful observation of individual behaviors and adherence to evolving diagnostic criteria. By being proactive and well-informed, parents can advocate for their child’s needs and ensure appropriate interventions for their development. Remember, diagnosing autism is a collaborative process between experts and parents, ultimately working towards the well-being and success of individuals on the autism spectrum.

In the difficult journey that is parenting, one of the most effective means through which one can nurture a healthy self-esteem in their children, is to steer away from comparison with others.

Having been a child myself, and now in the field I am in, this is not just anecdotal wisdom I share.

A meta-analysis that was published in the “ Journal of Child and Family Studies” has shown that children are more likely to develop feelings of inadequacy and overall self perception if subjected to constant or even frequent comparisons to others (even other family members).

Moreover, constant comparisons set potential unrealistic expectations for children that if unmet, can induce anxiety, depression, and most importantly lead to a distorted sense of self; where they only feel valued if they meet the “criteria” set by others.

Rather than honing on these comparisons, parents can rather make an emphasis on their own children’s accomplishments, as well as strengths, even if outside the scope of the parents’ desires.

In fact, research that was conducted by Legette and Dweck has displayed the importance of praise from parents. By being able to recognize their goals, efforts and achievements, parents are then much more able and likely, to build a self perception that is shrouded in the idea of personal growth.

Lastly, creating a safe space for children to express their emotions, as well as feelings is extremely crucial. Research by Morris Et Al (2020) has shown by creating a space that allows one’s children to communicate their thoughts and ideas without potential consequence, allows them to navigate societal pressures and lets children build emotional resilience.

Overall, constant comparisons can have detrimental effects on a child’s psyche, and parents can contribute to building a foundation of confidence and self love, that will benefit their children in the long run by reducing the amount of external comparisons as well as creating a safe/open space for honest communication.

Blog Co-Authored By:

Shardil Ahmad, Medical Student, St. George’s Medical School 2025

References:

Johnson, J. L., et al. (2019). The Effects of Parental Comparisons on Children’s Feelings of Worth. Journal of Child and Family Studies.
Dweck, C. S., & Leggett, E. L. (1988). A Social-Cognitive Approach to Motivation and Personality. Psychological Review.
Morris, A. S., et al. (2020). Family Communication Patterns and the Development of Self-Esteem in Adolescents. Journal of Youth and Adolescence.

The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered dramatic changes throughout everyday life — and in the medical community as well. Not only are providers across the country postponing elective procedures, but many are also encouraging people to avoid in-office appointments to reduce their risk of exposure to this highly contagious coronavirus.

But what do you do if you still need health care? Fortunately, Telehealth can help.

How Telehealth works

Telehealth — or telemedicine — is a healthcare solution that allows you to meet with your doctor virtually instead of going to the office. Our 100% HIPAA-compliant system uses a two-way, high definition video, so we can talk face-to-face as if we’re in the same room together.

With Telehealth, you can also:

• Submit your medication list, allergies, ID cards, and medical history in advance
• Chat or share photos describing your symptoms
• Have prescriptions electronically sent to your pharmacy
• Securely pay online for your virtual visit

This streamlined approach originally evolved to help expand medical care to men, women, and children living in remote areas. Today, 76% of hospitals use Telehealth technology, and US employers could save as much as $6 billion a year by making telemedicine technology available to their employees. But the advantages of Telehealth go far beyond financial savings.

The benefits of telemedicine

Whether you live close to your doctor or in a rural area, you probably know firsthand that even a routine visit involves wait times of 18 minutes or longer — and that doesn’t even include the time you spend getting there. Telehealth technology eliminates that.

By connecting to your doctor in a virtual setting, you can expect to:

• Miss less time at work
• Have fewer disruptions with any child or elder care responsibilities
• Eliminate the time or travel expenses associated with your office visit
• Receive quality health care faster
• Reduce subjecting yourself and others to a contagious illness

At the same time, you also reduce your risk of exposure to contagious illnesses, like the common cold, flu, and COVID-19.

Telemedicine is also available to patients of all ages, including children, older adults, and those in vulnerable health. That makes it an ideal healthcare solution for everyone, especially when someone can no longer leave their home safely but still requires medical attention.

What to expect during a Telehealth appointment

Telemedicine technology has never been easier to use, simply:

• Download our app to your tablet, computer, or phone
• Request an appointment through our Telehealth portal
• Fill out the registration forms included in our calendar invite
• Follow the link in your calendar invite to open your video-chat to start your appointment

You can also upload photos, if needed, to help us diagnose your symptoms.

For more information on telemedicine or to schedule your virtual visit, contact us by calling or requesting your Telehealth appointment online today.

Teaching humility to our children is an aspect I believe is crucial in their upbringing. It is important for parents to instill in their kids the values of empathy, understanding, and kindness towards others, regardless of their circumstances or appearance. Here are a few suggestions on how parents can teach their children humility:

1. Lead by example: Children learn more from observing their parents’ behavior than from any lectures. Show humility in your own actions and demonstrate empathy towards others. Let your children see you helping those in need or treating everyone with respect and kindness.
2. Encourage gratitude: Teach your children to be grateful for what they have and to appreciate the blessings in their lives. Help them understand that material possessions do not define their worth and that there are others who may be less fortunate.
3. Volunteer together: Engage your children in volunteer work or community service activities. By actively participating in helping those in need, they will develop a greater understanding of different realities and be more empathetic towards others.
4. Teach empathy: Encourage your children to put themselves in other people’s shoes and consider how their actions or words may affect others. Help them understand that everyone deserves respect and that judging others based on their appearance is unfair.
5. Discuss the importance of character: Emphasize the significance of qualities such as kindness, integrity, and compassion over material possessions. Help your children understand that these traits are what truly define a person’s worth.
6. Teach financial responsibility: Teach your children about the value of money and how to manage it responsibly. This includes understanding the difference between necessities and luxuries and making wise choices when it comes to spending.
7. Foster a sense of community: Encourage your children to engage with people from different backgrounds and cultures. This will help broaden their perspective and develop a greater appreciation for diversity.

Remember, teaching humility is an ongoing process that requires consistent reinforcement and modeling. By instilling these values in our children, we can help create a more compassionate and understanding society.

In today’s challenging times, it has become increasingly important for parents to address difficult topics with their children while maintaining a safe and nurturing environment. One such topic is active shooter drills at school. Although necessary for safety preparedness, discussing these drills with children requires sensitivity to avoid causing fear or anxiety. This post aims to provide parents with valuable insights and practical tips to approach this conversation calmly and effectively.

1. Understand their age and maturity level:

The very first step in discussing active shooter drills is to consider the age and maturity level of your child. Younger children may struggle to grasp the concept of such drills, while older ones may require more in-depth explanations. Tailor your approach accordingly to ensure your child understands the information without feeling overwhelmed.

2. Start the conversation:

Initiate the conversation by asking your children what they already know or have heard about active shooter drills. This creates an open dialogue and allows parents to correct any misconceptions. Focus on creating a safe space for them to ask questions and express their feelings without judgment.

3. Use age-appropriate language:

When explaining active shooter drills, make sure your language is appropriate for your child’s age. Stick to simple explanations devoid of graphic details, emphasizing that the drills are part of a safety routine. Assure them that the teachers and other adults are trained to protect them in emergencies and reinforce the importance of following instructions during drills.

4. Validate emotions:

Acknowledge and validate any fears or concerns your child expresses. It is natural for children to feel anxious or scared about active shooter drills or the topic in general. Assure them that their feelings are valid and that you are always there to support and protect them. Reiterate that these drills are a precautionary measure to keep everyone safe.

5. Promose empowerment and resilience:

The conversation should also focus on empowering your child with resilience. Discuss emergency procedures and make sure they know their role in staying safe during drills. Teach them easy-to-remember safety tips, such as finding a safe place to hide or staying quiet. Reassure them that practicing these drills helps everyone be more prepared for emergencies, ensuring their safety.

Discussing active shooter drills with your children is undoubtedly challenging; however, it is a paramount responsibility in today’s world. By utilizing age-appropriate language, providing reassurance, and promoting empowerment, parents can effectively address this topic while minimizing stress and anxiety. Remember, open and honest communication coupled with a loving and supportive environment can empower children to navigate emergency situations with preparedness and resilience.

“Faith can move mountains” is often used to emphasize the power of belief or certainty in overcoming challenges. In the context of mental health, various studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that faith or spirituality can indeed play a role in easing symptoms of anxiety and depression for some individuals. Here’s how:

1. Sense of Community and Support: Many faith-based communities provide a strong sense of belonging and support. This social aspect can be particularly beneficial for individuals facing mental health challenges, as it offers a network of understanding and support.
2. Coping Mechanism: Faith can offer a framework for understanding and coping with life’s challenges. It can provide a sense of hope, purpose, and meaning, which can be particularly comforting during difficult times, potentially alleviating feelings of anxiety and depression.
3. Meditative and Reflective Practices: Many religious and spiritual practices involve meditation, prayer, or reflection, which can be calming and therapeutic. These practices can help in managing stress and anxiety, fostering a sense of peace and well-being.
4. Moral and Ethical Guidance: Faith often provides a set of moral and ethical guidelines that can help individuals make sense of their experiences and choices. This can lead to a greater sense of control and direction, reducing feelings of anxiety and helplessness.
5. Positive Psychological Effects: Studies have shown that engaging in spiritual practices can have positive effects on mental health, including increased optimism, better mood regulation, and greater overall well-being.

It’s important to note, however, that the relationship between faith and mental health can vary greatly from person to person. While some may find great comfort and benefit in their spiritual beliefs and practices, others might not experience the same effect. It is important to note that faith, should not be seen as a substitute for professional mental health treatment when it is needed. It can, however, be an added valuable component of a holistic approach to mental health care and well-being.

If you aren’t certain, please reach out for help and together, with the support of a mental healthcare provider, your path can become more clear.

Study mentioned above can be found here.
The above study shared on the APA LinkedIn.