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Adolescent Seeking Mental Health Services: Self-Reported Health Risks and the Need to Talk

NCJ Number
210657
Journal
Social Work in Mental Health Volume: 3 Issue: 1/2 Dated: 2004 Pages: 121-133
Author(s)
Daniel Medeiros; Leah Kramnick; Elizabeth Diaz-Cruz; Michael Surko; Angela Diaz
Date Published
2004
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This study presents findings from an analysis of aggregate data of the general section of “You Health” of Adquest, a clinical adolescent self-assessment questionnaire.
Abstract
In order to better address the medical health needs of adolescents presenting for mental health services at the Mount Sinai Hospital Adolescent Health Center (AHC), several questions were integrated into Adquest, a clinical adolescent self-assessment questionnaire filled out by adolescents during the first mental health appointment they attend in an attempt to better engage adolescents. This study reports findings from the aggregate data of the general section of “Your Health” of the Adquest providing information on adolescent health concerns. The study demonstrates that adolescents who seek mental health counseling have physical health concerns as well. In addition, adolescents reported wanting to talk about their health risks. Sleep difficulties was the most frequent concern, as well as weight and concerns about eating. It was concluded that adolescents receiving mental health services should be assessed for health problems by their therapists and have access to health care. References