Navigating School Policies for Children with Depression: A Parent's Guide

Q: Navigating School Policies for Children with Depression: A Parent's Guide

Hello, Ms. <br>Chi： If your child's condition is not good and you cannot get an appointment at an outpatient clinic, you can go to the emergency department for medical care. <br>However, if a public hospital is fully booked, have you considered looking for other public hospitals?

The child has experienced depression and has had suicidal thoughts?

The school has requested that the child engage in home study due to a previous incident of jumping from a height.
They require us to provide a certificate from a public hospital in order to grant an extended leave.
However, the father is concerned that if a certificate is issued, the school may use it as a basis to require the child to withdraw or transfer.
Additionally, public outpatient clinics are fully booked, and we can only secure an appointment by the end of August.
The child is worried that if the certificate is obtained too late, it may result in excessive absences leading to expulsion.
Currently, the child has been receiving treatment at a clinic for three weeks.
However, this time the child has had a strong reaction to the medication, experiencing symptoms such as palpitations, rapid heartbeat, mood swings, depression, and vomiting after eating.
The child can only keep down chocolate and honey water.
Sleep quality is poor, with episodes of waking due to difficulty breathing and feeling unable to get enough air, resulting in a maximum of four hours of sleep.
As a result, the father has decided to stop the medication.
After two days without the medication, some symptoms (difficulty breathing, palpitations, rapid heartbeat) have slightly improved, but the child still experiences vomiting when eating, and sleep quality remains poor.
I would like to inquire whether it is appropriate to seek emergency care under these circumstances.
Once the school receives the certificate, do they have the authority to use it as a basis to require the child to withdraw or transfer?

Qi Ran, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/09

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry

Hello, Ms.
Chi: If your child's condition is not good and you cannot get an appointment at an outpatient clinic, you can go to the emergency department for medical care.
However, if a public hospital is fully booked, have you considered looking for other public hospitals? At least you should aim to see a physician and obtain documentation to complete the leave process.
Some medical centers collaborate with other hospitals, and physicians may provide consultations at those facilities.
If you cannot secure an appointment at the medical center, it is usually easier to get one at a collaborating hospital.
Additionally, you can ask the clinic physician for a referral, which should also make it easier to get an appointment.
Schools typically require documentation to verify the student's condition in order to assess how to support the student.
Schools do not have the authority to require a child to withdraw or transfer solely based on a diagnosis.
Wishing you peace and health!

Reply Date: 2023/06/09

More Info

Navigating school policies for children with depression can be a challenging and stressful experience for parents. It is crucial to understand both the medical and educational aspects involved in such situations. Based on the information provided, it seems that your child is experiencing significant mental health challenges, which are impacting their ability to attend school. Here are some steps and considerations to help you navigate this situation effectively.

Understanding the School's Requirements
1. Medical Documentation: Schools often require medical documentation to justify extended absences due to health issues, including mental health conditions like depression. This documentation typically needs to come from a licensed healthcare provider, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. While it is understandable to be concerned about the implications of obtaining such documentation, it is essential to prioritize your child's health and well-being.

2. School Policies: Familiarize yourself with your child's school policies regarding mental health and absences. Schools are generally required to accommodate students with medical conditions under laws such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. These laws protect students from discrimination and ensure they receive appropriate support.

3. Communication with School Officials: Open communication with school officials is vital. Schedule a meeting with the school counselor or principal to discuss your child's situation. Explain the challenges your child is facing and express your concerns about the potential for being required to withdraw or transfer schools. Schools often have resources and support systems in place for students dealing with mental health issues.

Addressing Medical Concerns
1. Seeking Immediate Help: Given your child's severe symptoms, including heart palpitations, difficulty breathing, and significant emotional distress, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention. If your child is experiencing acute symptoms, visiting an emergency room or urgent care facility may be necessary. They can provide a thorough evaluation and determine the best course of action regarding medication and treatment.

2. Medication Management: It is crucial to work closely with your child's healthcare provider to manage their medication effectively. If your child is experiencing adverse reactions to their current medication, do not stop the medication abruptly without consulting the prescribing physician. Instead, contact the healthcare provider to discuss the side effects and explore alternative treatment options.

3. Therapeutic Support: In addition to medication, consider engaging your child in therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for children and adolescents with depression. A mental health professional can provide coping strategies and emotional support tailored to your child's needs.

Supporting Your Child
1. Emotional Support: Provide a supportive and understanding environment at home. Encourage open communication about their feelings and experiences. Let your child know that it is okay to express their emotions and that you are there to support them through this difficult time.

2. Healthy Routines: Help your child establish a daily routine that includes regular meals, sleep, and physical activity. Encourage them to engage in activities they enjoy, as this can help improve their mood and overall well-being.

3. Monitoring Progress: Keep track of your child's symptoms and any changes in their behavior or mood. This information can be valuable when discussing their condition with healthcare providers and school officials.

Conclusion
Navigating school policies for children with depression requires a proactive approach that prioritizes your child's health and well-being. While it is natural to have concerns about the implications of obtaining medical documentation, it is essential to focus on getting your child the help they need. Open communication with school officials, seeking immediate medical assistance, and providing emotional support at home are critical steps in this process. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you and your child through these challenging times.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Children's Mental Health: Addressing Academic Pressure and Suicidal Thoughts

Hello, doctor: I am a working mother with two young children, a third-grade daughter and a second-grade son. After school, they go directly to after-school care, which they have been attending for over two years. I am not too worried about my daughter academically; she has good l...

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello, Xiaoxin: This is a cry for help from the child. I suggest we first listen, take the time to carefully understand what difficulties the child is facing, and how we can assist them. A child's emotional state can significantly impact their learning, and for a child to ac...

Addressing Middle School Adjustment Issues in Children: A Parent's Guide

Hello, doctor. I have a child in the first year of junior high school who was a healthy and normal boy during elementary school. However, after entering junior high, he has been experiencing severe adjustment issues with school life. The teachers place a very high emphasis on gra...

Dr. Song Chengxian reply Psychiatry
Dear Worried Mom, Based on your description, it seems that your child is struggling to adapt to the overly strict management style of the current teacher, resulting in noticeable emotional and behavioral responses. Transferring schools is indeed a consideration. Before making a...

Understanding School Bullying and Its Impact on Mental Health

Hello, doctor. I am a middle school student who has been bullied since the sixth grade and continues to be a victim of bullying in the eighth grade. Specifically, the bullying I experience is mainly relational bullying (exclusion) and verbal bullying. I hear classmates talking be...

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry
Hello Afa: Living under the dual pressures of family and school can be really tough for you! I suggest that you seek assistance from the psychiatric department at a hospital, where there are doctors, psychologists, and social workers available to help you address your concerns. A...

Understanding and Supporting Your Child's Psychological Needs in Preschool

Hello Doctor: My child, a 4-year-old boy, is in a public kindergarten's middle class. From infancy until preschool, he was cared for by his grandparents during the day and brought home by us at night. He grew up without interaction with peers until he started school. The kin...

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello: The child may have a more stubborn personality and might need extra time to adjust. The child's anger and noncompliance can sometimes be a way of testing their surroundings. When we remain patient, not getting frustrated, and continue to engage them with fun and inter...