News from the Field Related to Wraparound
When Poverty Is Profitable
June 30, 2016
Interview with Daniel L. Hatcher, a professor at the University of Baltimore’s School of Law, about his new book “The Poverty Industry: The Exploitation of America’s Most Vulnerable Citizens”.
ADHD: The Pros and Cons of a Drug Holiday
June 28, 2016
This piece discusses the potential risks and benefits to having children on ADHD medication take a planned break from their medication during the summer.
Read the article about taking kids off ADHD medication over the summer»
Opening New Doors to Recruit and Retain Foster Parents
June 27, 2016
In this opinion piece, April Dinwoodie, chief executive of the Donaldson Adoption Institute and co-founder and board VP of Fostering Change for Children, points out the importance of supporting connection with families of origin for youth in foster care.
A link between air pollution and children’s mental health?
June 23, 2016
A recent study in Sweden found that kids living in areas with higher levels of air pollution were more likely to take prescription medicines associated with long-term mental illnesses.
Read the article about air pollution and children’s mental health»
Low attention control in early adolescence is a genetic risk factor for anxiety disorders
June 23, 2016
“The Shared Etiology of Attentional Control and Anxiety: An Adolescent Twin Study” published recently in the Journal of Research on Adolescence, looked at genetic and environmental factors in low attention control and anxiety symptoms in early adolescence.
Read the article about the study on attention control and anxiety.»Poor outcomes for adolescents who use Marijuana
June 22, 2016
A recent study by RAND Corporation followed a group of LA-area students over a seven year period, from their participation in an alcohol and other drug use prevention program in middle schools through high school, surveying them on their drug use and academic progress.
Programs Provide Consultation on Psychotropic Medications for Kids
June 16, 2016
This blog post profiles two programs – the Oregon Psychiatric Access Line about Kids, and the Partnership Access Line, used in Washington and Wyoming – that address the current national shortage of child psychiatrists by providing primary care physicians with consultation on behavioral health treatment options.
Read the article on psychotropic medication consultation for kids»
Antidepressants Little to No Help for Children and Teens
June 16, 2016
After analyzing data from 34 studies involving more than 5,000 youths 9-18 years old, researchers found only fluoxetine (Prozac) was more effective than a placebo in relieving the youths’ depressive symptoms. Considering risk vs. benefits, researchers concluded that antidepressants may not be worthwhile for children and teens with major depression.
New study: Medication and Children in Foster Care
June 16, 2016
A new study by Rutgers University-New Brunswick researchers looked at the use of anti-psychotic medication for children in foster care and other Medicaid-insured children. Although they found encouraging progress in several states, the researchers confirmed an ongoing need for greater oversight and quality improvement to ensure judicious prescription of anti-psychotics medications for children.
Read the article about anti-psychotic medication for children in foster care and other Medicaid-insured children»Family-Based Weight Management Program
June 15, 2016
Article about a small study of the Fit Families program in Southern New Mexico, which addresses childhood obesity through a holistic, family-focused approach. The children involved in the program showed improved self-perception.