Parents and their child’s doctor are in the best position to work together to promote good mental health in children, to identify mental health challenges and seek treatment when its necessary.

But, too often, parents are reluctant to ask questions about their child’s mental health, or about their social and emotional development, because they don’t see the connection to their child’s overall health and well-being.

And in the rush of an office visit, a doctor might not always have or take the time to ask the kinds of questions that raise the subject of social and emotional development in a way that invites a parent to really open up.

Yet, by raising the subject, parents and doctors can be true partners in promoting good mental health in every child.