The ViewPoint Center knows when it comes to depression in adolescents, it can be hard for parents to identify symptoms, as they tend to not mirror classic depression symptoms found in adults.  As a parent, this can be frustrating, especially when trying to get the best help for their child.  “There are a lot of options and parents need to know it is treatable” says Jennifer Young, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at The ViewPoint Center. Families have usually utilized hospitalizations, PHP’s, IOP, etc., trying to get much needed answers, prior to enrolling in a program such as The ViewPoint Center.

The ViewPoint Center, a licensed specialty psychiatric hospital, created a series of Whiteboard Wisdom videos, where the Assessment Director and team address the many questions parents are facing. Dr. Rigby notes becoming in-tune with your teen may seem difficult, but it is possible.  The best places to begin assessing for adolescent depression are in the following areas:

• Socially: teens may continue to associate with close friends or may change peer groups.
• Sleep: teens may still find time to sleep, it might be during odd hours.
• Emotions: feelings of depression can come out as irritability/anger and sensitivity.
• Physical Health: aches/pains, headaches, stomach problems, “I just don’t feel well”.

The Whiteboard Wisdom series was created to help educate parents navigating complex situations. Watch the latest Whiteboard Wisdom – Adolescent Depression where Assessment Director Dr. Jordan Rigby and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Jennifer Young discuss Adolescent Depression, symptoms to watch for, and the best treatment options available.

Located near Salt Lake City, Utah, ViewPoint Center is a comprehensive therapeutic assessment facility licensed as a specialty psychiatric hospital for adolescents of all genders ages 12-18. ViewPoint Center works with adolescents who struggle with depression and other mental health issues. ViewPoint Center provides a comprehensive multidisciplinary evaluation involving psychiatry, clinical, medical, academic, neuropsychological and social milieu functioning in a safe environment with 24-hour nursing.  At the end of the therapeutic assessment, each family receives a multidisciplinary report which summarizes treatment while also providing a comprehensive diagnostic picture of the child along with clearly defined recommendations for subsequent treatment. 

For more information about ViewPoint Center, please call 855-290-9682 or visit our website