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YoMingo Pregnancy App

YoMingo Pregnancy App

Genesis HealthCare System offers anytime, anywhere education through YoMingo®, a program designed to give you convenient access to valuable information. It includes the tools and support you need at every stage of your healthcare journey and beyond.

Call Maternity Services 740-454-4321 Explore Maternity classes

YoMingo gives you access to:

  • Evidence-based education on prenatal care, labor and birth, postpartum, breastfeeding and newborn care including many videos.
  • Information specific to your arrival and stay at Genesis HealthCare System
  • Community health resources
  • List of available classes and support groups
  • Personal journal
  • And other tools

This is available on any device with an internet connection and comes in multiple languages.

Get the app now

Step 1: Register

Register for the program by clicking here and following the instructions. Once you have registered, you will receive an email invitation from noreply@yomingo.com where you can create a unique password and log in. If you do not receive the email in your inbox, be sure to check your junk/spam folder. Then, you can also download the mobile app version by searching your app store for “YoMingo”.

Step 2: Download the app

Once you have registered, you can also download the mobile app version by searching your app store for "myYoMingo," which is available in iTunes, Google Play and Windows app stores.



 

Already registered? Log in here.

Disclaimer: The information in YoMingo® is NOT intended to take the place of a healthcare provider or any information that your healthcare provider has discussed with you about your own personal health. It is imperative and advised that you find care and work with your healthcare provider to keep yourself healthy and safe. Always call your healthcare provider with any questions you may have. By creating an account in YoMingo, you have verified that you have read and agree to this disclaimer.

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Childbirth Education

Childbirth Education

Things have changed a lot over the years – new medications, technology, more advanced equipment, computerized fetal monitoring, epidural, etc.

We want you to be aware of what to expect during delivery, so you can relax and enjoy the experience while you're here ...

Call Maternity Services 740-454-4321 Explore Maternity classes

Our Classes Offer Certified Childbirth Educators

Our childbirth classes are designed to prepare you for your special event and make your childbirth experience a joyous memory. Classes are taught by certified childbirth educators and provide instruction to help you before and after childbirth.

Class Registration

Early registration is recommended to better ensure an opening in a class time that meets your schedule.

Register online here.

    Childbirth Preparation

    Childbirth Preparation

    This class focuses on the physical and emotional changes occurring during pregnancy.

    Attendance is recommended during the last three months of your pregnancy. This class presents information to prepare for and and enhance your labor experience. Topics include, pain management and epidural; induction of labor; C-section; abnormal signs and symptoms; relaxation; and helpful tips for support persons.

    The following is information on classes:

    • Weekday evenings, one-time three-hour class
    • Registration is required
    • $84.36 fee
    Prenatal Breastfeeding

    This class provides information to prepare you and your partner to successfully breastfeed your new baby as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the World Health Organization and the Center for Disease Control. The class covers feeding cues, latching and positioning, as well as preparing you to return to work.

    Any first-time mom or previous breastfeeding mom will benefit from this class. Fathers or support persons are encouraged to attend. We recommend you attend between your fifth and eight month of pregnancy.

    Breastfeeding Support for Success

    This class offers professional and mother-to-mother support. Bring your infant for a weight check and have the opportunity to ask our lactation consultant questions about your infant. The instructor will review age-appropriate norms for the breastfeeding infant. This class is offered every Monday 11 a.m. to noon at Genesis Hospital Room 1N240, and all mothers are welcome.

    Breastfeeding for the Working Mom

    Mothers who will be returning to work or school are encouraged to contact the Lactation Department at (740) 450-6455 and schedule a free one-on-one consultation about two to three weeks before returning to work. This meeting helps prepare the breastfeeding mother for a smooth transition back to work or school. Selection, proper use and maintenance of a breast pump, proper storage of breast milk and advice for adding pumping to your day are a few of the topics covered.

    Baby Basics

    Basic baby care is covered with hands-on demonstrations.

    Baby Basics Topics

    • Feeding options
    • Bathing and diapering
    • Car seats
    • Safety
    • Soothing and calming baby
    • Choosing the best equipment

    We recommend you attend a one-session, 2 hour class at seven to eight months during your pregnancy.

    Sibling Class

    This class helps prepare children ages three to seven for the arrival of a new brother or sister.

    Sibling Class Topics

    • How the baby is born
    • Baby’s appearance
    • Feelings about the new baby’s arrival
    • How to help take care of the baby

    We recommend your children attend this class two to four weeks before your due date. Parents are asked to attend and stay with your children. This is a one-hour class.

    Pediatric CPR

    Being prepared for emergencies may mean the difference between a positive and negative outcome.

    For class information, contact Zane State College at (740) 588-1288

    Postpartum Education

    Mothers are provided with education on the obstetrical unit following baby’s birth. This education covers care for mother and baby after delivery.

    Tour

    Tour our obstetric unit and see all we have to offer to make your childbirth a special event or call us for more information at 454-4321; 800-322-4762 ext. 4321

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    Maternity Services

    Maternity Services

    Your baby’s birth starts a lifetime of memories to cherish and share. Whether this is your first child or you’re welcoming a new sibling, count on Genesis’ experienced, caring team to guide and support you throughout your pregnancy, labor and delivery.

    See why more than 1,400 of your southeastern Ohio friends and neighbors choose to welcome their babies at Genesis each year.

    Call Maternity Services 740-454-4321 Explore Maternity classes

    Childbirth Specialists

    Receive care, support and education from our team of caring experts, including:

    • Board-certified OB-GYN physicians
    • Board-certified pediatricians with advanced training in caring for premature babies
    • Nurses with education and experience caring for moms and babies
    • Certified lactation consultants
    • Anesthesiologists

    Pregnancy & Parenting Education & Support

    Prepare for your new arrival with classes for every member of your family. We offer an array of classes covering childbirth, basic baby care, becoming a big brother or sister, and more.

    After your baby’s born, our experienced nurses will help you learn how to care for your newborn and yourself.

    Learn about breastfeeding your baby through classes and support from our board-certified lactation consultants.

    Genesis also offers YoMingo® an education app designed to give you convenient access to valuable information.

    Online childbirth education courses are also available. The online classes include Labor and Birth, Essentials of Breastfeeding and Baby Care Basics for one registration cost of $30. You can take the classes at your convenience. The online course bundle is available to you for one year, and you can access them from multiple devices.

    Features for Mom, Baby & Family

    Enjoy our spacious, home-like obstetric units, which include a play area for children. View our visitor guidelines.

    If your baby needs special attention after birth, rest assured that he or she will get the highest level of care in southeastern Ohio at our Level II Special Care Nursery. If your baby needs to remain in the hospital longer than you do, stay nearby with our Mom’s Bed & Breakfast program.

    Click here for information about our Maternity Unit Tours. 

    Reducing Early Elective Deliveries

    Rely on Genesis to support healthy growth and development by encouraging you to wait until the 39th completed week of pregnancy to deliver your baby, unless there’s a medical reason to deliver early.

    When you avoid an early elective delivery, you and your baby are less likely to experience complications or an extended hospital stay.

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    Genesis Heart Patients Share Their Stories

    Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on

    Genesis Heart Patients Share Their Stories

    Make an appointment 800-834-7804

    Featured heart patient stories

    Every day at Genesis, lives are saved through the quick and skilled reaction of the Genesis heart team. With accreditations for chest pain, Genesis is well equipped and prepared to stop a heart attack in its tracks and help people recover when a heart problem arises. Genesis is also the first hospital in the nation to earn accreditation for atrial fibrillation, another common heart problem.

    Highlighted in our quarterly publication LiveWell, here are examples of the phenomenal heart care delivered by the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute. We’re bringing the best and the brightest physicians to Genesis to provide you the highest quality care.

     

    Amber Allen

    An accident survivor's advice: trust yourself

    “I’ve heard of people dying from a clot in their lungs the size of a pebble,” Amber said. “I escaped death twice in a few weeks thanks to Genesis.”

    Read Amber's full story here


     

    Heart patient advises not to wait if something seems unusual

    “Dr. Gabi called my condition a STEMI. At the time, I didn’t know what that meant. But now I know it’s the second most deadly heart attack,” said Karl. “As soon as the stents were placed, I felt normal again. There was no more chest pain."
     

    Read Karl's full story here
    See more Heart & Vascular patient stories
    Top 50 heart hospital

    Genesis is one of America’s Top 50 Heart Hospitals

    For the 2nd year in a row

    Learn more

    Supporting Health Care in Our Communities

    The Genesis HealthCare Foundation is here to promote charitable support for Genesis HealthCare System.

    Ways you can help
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    Audiology

    Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on

    Audiology

    Genesis Audiology has a wide range of services with licensed, certified staff to offer you the best possible care and to meet the needs of those having trouble hearing.

    People of all ages – from infants to seniors – can get hearing tests at Genesis. If you’re diagnosed with hearing loss, a care team will guide you through hearing rehabilitation and fit you for hearing aids.

      Conditions we treat

      Noticeable signs of hearing loss can include difficulty hearing sounds such as birds singing, crickets chirping, doorbells ringing or difficulty hearing someone talk in group conversations. Another sign is pain or ringing in the ears after being exposed to excessively loud sounds. Loud sounds like a firearm or firecracker at 140 to 165 decibels can cause immediate hearing damage. We can also treat and diagnose:

      Balance problems
      Hearing loss
      Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
      Treatments and procedures

      Our Audiology department has specialists to help you find the right type of hearing aid for all types of hearing environments. We have more than 35 years of experience helping people improve their hearing. Our services include:

      Adolescent evaluations Geriatric evaluations
      Adult evaluations Hearing aid fittings
      Annual hearing evaluations Inpatient testing
      Aural rehabilitation Middle ear function tests (tympanometry)
      Balance testing Neonatal hearing tests (otoacoustic emissions testing)
      Cochlear ear implants Outpatient testing
      Employee education Pediatric evaluations
      Fittings for specialty earplugs Pre-employment testing
      Audiology care and hearing tests for all ages

      Genesis audiologists use a variety of tests and procedures to diagnose hearing loss. You and your family can benefit from hearing tests and evaluations for all ages, such as:

      Adolescent through adult hearing evaluations
      Adult hearing aid evaluations and fittings
      Hearing aids fitted and checked during hospital inpatient stay
      Infant hearing testing
      Newborn diagnostic hearing testing for infants up to six months old
      Pediatric hearing evaluations

      Cochlear implants

      The latest advancements in care, including cochlear implants, are also available at Genesis. Max Pusz, M.D., otolaryngology, provides cochlear implants. If you’d like more information about obtaining a cochlear implant, call the Genesis ENT Group at (740) 454-0158.

      Make an appointment with audiology

      Genesis Audiology is located at Genesis Hospital, 2951 Maple. Ave., Garden Level, Room G164 in Zanesville. Audiology Services are also available at the Genesis ENT Group, 2945 Maple Ave., Zanesville. You can call (740) 454-0158 for more information.

      A primary care provider or specialist provides a referral to Genesis Audiology. After the referral is in place, Genesis Central Scheduling will call you to set up an appointment that best meets your needs. For more information, call (740) 454-4713 or 800-322-4762, ext. 4713.

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      Aquatic Therapy

      Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on

      Aquatic Therapy

      Aquatic therapy continues to grow in popularity as a safe complement or alternative to traditional physical therapy and is suitable for children and adults of all ages and fitness levels. Our aquatic therapy programs at Genesis are designed to help you manage pain, increase strength and improve conditioning – in a setting that reduces stress on your joints and body.

      Our aquatic therapies are provided at the Buckeye Valley Family YMCA. The water therapies allow you to exercise with less pressure on your body, and the warm water pool can help ease stiff and achy muscles and joints.

      The Genesis certified physical therapists and physical therapists’ assistants help you in one-on-one or group sessions. Genesis therapists are certified through the Aquatic Therapy Rehab Institute, an internationally recognized organization to provide research-based programs and good outcomes. Aquatic therapy includes exercise programs such as Pilates, yoga and others. The goal is for you to have a fun experience so you can enjoy the water on your own.

      Make an appointment for water therapy

      If you’d like more information about our aquatic therapies, call Genesis Rehabilitation Services. You’ll need a physician referral for your first aquatic therapy session. Check your health insurance plan to see if coverage is available for aquatic therapy.

      Call 740-455-5151

      Our aquatic therapies are provided at the Buckeye Valley Family YMCA. The water therapies allow you to exercise with less pressure on your body, and the warm water pool can help ease stiff and achy muscles and joints.

      The Genesis certified physical therapists and physical therapists’ assistants help you in one-on-one or group sessions. Genesis therapists are certified through the Aquatic Therapy Rehab Institute, an internationally recognized organization to provide research-based programs and good outcomes. Aquatic therapy includes exercise programs such as Pilates, yoga and others. The goal is for you to have a fun experience so you can enjoy the water on your own.

        Conditions we treat

        Aquatic therapy offers treatments or exercises in the water for fitness or physical rehabilitation. You’ll find that the treatments and exercises can be done while floating or in the water.

        Arthritis Parkinson’s Disease
        Autism (ASD) Peripheral neuropathy
        Back pain Post surgical cases
        Breast cancer Rheumatoid Arthritis
        Bursitis Scoliosis
        Cancer Spinal cord injury
        Chronic pain Sports rehabilitation
        Fibromyalgia Tendonitis
        Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Weight gain
        Muscle fatigue
        Treatments and procedures

        Our therapists use various techniques in water therapy according to your care plan. The therapy exercises are based on the rehabilitation needed and your physical abilities. The treatments include:

        Ai Chi BackHab (pool therapy)
        Aqua Running Burdenko Method (pool exercises)
        Aqua Stretch Lumbar stabilization/strengthening
        Back Rehabilitation

        How our aquatic therapy works

        Water therapy, sometimes referred to as water exercise or hydrotherapy, can benefit all ages, including children with special needs and senior citizens. Our therapists are specially trained to design sessions that consider limitations due to age or physical restrictions. Your therapy will be based on an initial evaluation, your goals and a plan of care. If aquatic therapy is part of the plan, the therapists will recommend physical therapy at MRC, and work with a physical therapist to achieve your goals.

        The aquatic therapy treatments are about 30 minutes. Please bring a swimsuit and water shoes for your therapy sessions. We have a warm water pool to help you meet a variety of goals. The warm water provides a healing environment to help increase circulation, strength and flexibility. The buoyancy while in the water helps you move easier, limiting stress on your joints.

         
         
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        Services, Specialized Programs and Support Groups

        Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on

        Services, Specialized Programs and Support Groups

        You’ll find a wide variety of the most up-to-date rehabilitation services like occupational rehab, physical therapy and aquatic therapies available in Zanesville, Perry County and New Concord to help you get back to enjoying life. We also provide specialized programs to get you back to work and are some of the most comprehensive in the region. Our free support groups provide a comfortable opportunity to receive and offer emotional comfort and moral support for patients and caregivers living with Parkinson's disease, and survivors of brain injuries and stroke.

        Services

        You can find a wide range of therapies available from ages birth to senior citizens at convenient locations throughout our area. We have therapists certified to provide the specialty therapies you need to get back to enjoying life.

          Aquatic therapy

          Genesis Rehabilitation Services is a leader in providing innovative aquatic therapy. Our aquatic therapists are certified through the Aquatic Therapy Research Institute, to offer research-based programs recognized internationally. The healing water therapies are offered at the Buckeye Valley Family YMCA's warm water pool. There are convenient times and special classes available to meet your needs. Our specially trained staff is available to help you learn how to soothe aching muscles. Improve your strength, range of motion and other functional movements needed for daily living.

          Audiology

          Genesis offers the latest in audiology services including cochlear implants. Our Audiology services are available for all ages – from babies to senior citizens. The wide range of our services include diagnostic hearing for babies, adult hearing evaluations, hearing aid evaluations and balance testing. Patients in Genesis Hospital can also receive hearing aid evaluations. The Audiology services are conveniently located at Genesis Hospital and the Genesis ENT Group.

          Concussion Therapy

          We offer concussion therapy provided by specially trained concussion therapists at Genesis Rehabilitation Services so there’s no need to travel far from home for care. The treatments include comprehensive testing and evaluations, neurological assessment, vestibular screening, oculomotor testing (eye nerve), Sports Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT-5), ImPACT testing, and more.

          Occupational rehabilitation

          In-depth occupational rehab is available at Genesis Rehabilitation Services including work hardening, physical reconditioning, functional capacity evaluations and work capacity evaluations. The evaluations include testing your skills for the job you’ll return to. You want to get back to work as soon as you can, and we’re here to help you return to your job

          Occupational therapy

          Genesis Rehabilitation Services offers occupational therapy using a unique holistic approach to help those of all ages learn to enjoy everyday activities. Occupational therapists at Genesis Rehabilitation Services design programs specifically for you to help learn how to do daily activities like dressing, feeding and bathing as well as other daily activities (cooking, cleaning, laundry, etc) following an injury or surgery. Our occupational therapists are trained to address physical, cognitive, psychosocial and sensory issues to improve your quality of life and independence. Genesis Rehabilitation Services also has a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) and other trained therapists for splinting, casting and other hand therapy needs.

          Pediatric rehabilitation

          If your child needs therapy, we have a pediatric rehab facility designed just for kids. Your child can receive occupational, physical or speech therapy at this location. Aquatic therapy available for some patients at Buckeye Valley Family YMCA. There’s no need to travel far from home to receive exceptional and compassionate care by our skilled therapists.

          “Youth that are hospitalized for depression and/or suicidal concerns generally receive both psychotropic medication as well as various forms of psychotherapeutic interventions, such as group therapies,” he states. “Psychotherapy can teach kids to recognize and cope with problems and situations that may have been difficult before — as well as responding more effectively to new challenges.”

          Physical therapy

          Our comprehensive physical therapy focuses on the neck, shoulders, upper and lower back, hips, knees and ankles. Certified Licensed and trained therapists can help with gait (walking) training, balance exercises and activities specific to your work or sports. The therapists provide exercises and behavior management designed especially for you to help you move more easily after an injury, surgery or chronic condition. You’re able to receive expert therapies care close to where you live or work.

          Speech and language therapy

          Speech and language therapy is provided to patients by licensed and certified speech-language pathologists at Genesis Rehabilitation Services offer therapies specially designed for those recovering from stroke, brain tumors, neurological conditions, neuromuscular disease, head and neck injury or other conditions. Our speech and language therapies are available for both inpatients and outpatients. As part of the outpatient speech therapy services, we offer evaluations and treatments for adult and pediatric patients. In addition, we provide augmentative communication assessments and treatments.

          Pelvic control therapy

          Genesis Rehabilitation Services is one of the few facilities in Southeastern Ohio offering pelvic control therapy with a certified pelvic control therapist. Whether you’re experiencing urinary incontinence due to childbirth or age, our specially-trained therapist can provide exercises, lifestyle and behavioral health modifications and medical technology to successfully treat your symptoms. Pelvic control therapy is available for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapses and prenatal/postpartum. The specialized therapy is available in a private setting at the Genesis Center for Occupational & Outpatient Rehabilitation.

          Specialized Programs

          Genesis Rehabilitation Services has a wide array of specialized programs and therapies that might not be available elsewhere. We offer dry needling therapies and over 20 other specialized programs to help you control pain and manage other conditions. Our certified and specially trained therapists are available to help you get back to enjoying life.

          Support Groups

          Genesis Rehabilitation Services provides free support groups for a variety of conditions. Support groups including brain injury, stroke and Parkinson’s disease are available close to home to help you learn how to manage the condition from the experts and get firsthand knowledge from others. The support groups are available to help you understand you’re not alone and others are here to help you.

           
           
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          Rehabilitation Services

          Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on

          Rehabilitation Services

          Genesis Rehabilitation Services wants you to get back into resuming a quality life as soon as you can after having an injury or illness. Genesis offers a wide range of therapies, including physical therapy, speech and occupational. You can get the scientifically proven therapies you need close to home.

          We are here to help you recover and get back to enjoying everyday activities. The comprehensive care can include rehabilitation ranging from dry needling therapies to vestibular rehabilitation. Our goal is to bring quality back to your life.

          Genesis Outpatient Rehabilitation

          Genesis Outpatient Rehabilitation provides a spacious environment for your physical, occupational or speech therapy. The location has welcoming spaces for programs like sports therapies, Parkinson’s disease, women’s health and more. The facility is located at 3297 Maple Ave., Zanesville, in the Country Square Shopping Center. Please call to make an appointment.

          Call Outpatient Rehab (740) 455-5151

          From injury and diagnosis — to life after physical therapy

          Our licensed, certified staff works with your referring physician to ensure the best possible care. We work with your physician, along with you and your caregiver, to develop a therapy program specifically designed for you.

          Certified and compassionate therapists

          You’ll find our experienced personalized therapists are here to design a one-on-one program to get you back to what you love to do. You’ll notice the difference in our compassionate staff who is with you every step of the way. Our experienced therapists are devoted to helping you reach your full potential.

          Occupational rehabilitation for employers and employees

          At Genesis Rehabilitation Services we have occupational rehab programs precisely designed to get you back to work including work hardening, physical reconditioning, functional capacity evaluation and work capacity evaluation.

          Pediatric rehabilitation in Zanesville and Perry County

          We have a place specifically designed for children at Pediatric Rehab in Zanesville. Pediatric rehab is also available at the Genesis Perry County Medical Center in Somerset. You’ll find that we provide a comprehensive team-based approach.

          Pelvic control therapy

          If you suffer from incontinence or pelvic pain, we can help with pelvic control therapy. There’s a specially trained therapist available to offer comprehensive therapies including strengthening and relaxation exercises. Genesis Rehabilitation Services offers one of the few pelvic control therapies in the 6-county region.

          Parkinson's disease programs and support group

          Do you or someone you know have Parkinson’s disease? We offer unique exercise programs, not available elsewhere, specifically designed for those with Parkinson’s disease and caregivers. There are special aquatic programs, and Genesis Rehabilitation Services was one of the first in Ohio to offer the Rock Steady Boxing program. You may also consider joining our Parkinson's Disease Support Group, called Chat and Snack, for additional education, support and friendships.

          Aquatic therapy in Zanesville

          We offer aquatic therapy at the Muskingum County Family YMCA. You can seek solace in warm water pool to help get relief from those strained muscles or other conditions. The Y is conveniently located on the Ohio University/Zane State Campus in Zanesville. The modern recreation center has two pools for your therapy needs.

          20-plus specialized programs, audiology and dry needling

          You can count on us to provide a wide range of up-to-date specialized rehab programs to meet your needs. Genesis Audiology Services has hearing tests for all ages, including newborns. You don’t need to travel far from home to get a hearing test. You’ll also find the latest techniques, like dry needling, to help you feel better again.

          Rehabilitation support groups for brain injury and stroke

          Support groups are available throughout our community and provide an opportunity to learn from others who are facing the similar challenges. You’ll find brain injury, stroke, and Parkinson's disease support groups available for you and your loved ones.

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          Kids and Depression: Why It's Real and How to Ease Their Pain

          Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on

          Kids and Depression: Why It's Real and How to Ease Their Pain

          For Outpatient Inquires Call (740) 454-5927

          Get Answers to Overcome a Serious Childhood Mental Health Illness

          Childhood is often synonymous with being carefree, but for children living with depression each day can be increasingly difficult. While becoming more common, depression in children and adolescents is frequently overlooked and easily missed - leading to serious mental health issues, including an increased risk of suicide.

          Fortunately, timely recognition and treatment can be life-changing for children and adolescents struggling with depression, according to Howard A. Beazel, Psy.D., Genesis Behavioral Health. "It certainly can be harder to diagnose depression in children," he states.

          To help understand the reality of childhood depression, Dr. Beazel offers answers and hope for the serious, but treatable, illness.

            First, what is depression?

            Depression affects the way one feels, thinks and acts. A mental illness marked by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, depression can also lead to thoughts of suicide.

            Can children have depression?

            Yes, but children don't always get the classic symptoms of sadness, decrease in mood and lack of energy most people think of when they think of depression, explains Dr. Beazel.

            In fact, children may frequently show more irritability and become more overactive and/or complain more of somatic or physical symptoms,” he says. “While adults can tell you they feel depressed, children often don’t.”

            Although it's normal for children to experience the normal “blues” and everyday emotions as they develop, ongoing symptoms that interfere with social activities, interests, schoolwork, and family life may signal a child has depression. Studies report the mental health of teens and young adults in the U.S. has considerably declined, with rates of depression among kids ages 14 to 17 increased by more than 60% between 2009 and 2017.

            How can I tell if my child is depressed and how is it diagnosed?

            Just like every child is different, so are the symptoms that may show they are depressed. Although some children may continue to function with depression, others suffer a noticeable change in behavior. Some children may also begin using drugs or alcohol, especially if they are over age 12.

            Signs a child may be depressed include:

            • Increased sensitivity to rejection
            • Changes in appetite — either increased or decreased
            • Changes in sleep — lack of or excessive sleep
            • Vocal outbursts or crying
            • Difficulty concentrating
            • Fatigue and low energy
            • Physical complaints (including stomachaches, headaches) that can’t be treated
            • Reduced ability to function during events and activities at home or with friends, in school, extracurricular activities, and in other hobbies or interests
            • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
            • Impaired thinking or concentration

            While there are no specific tests — medical or psychological — that can clearly diagnose depression in children, there are tools including questionnaires for both the child and parents that can be helpful. Therapy sessions combined with questionnaires can often uncover other concerns that may contribute to depression, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

            “Because children often won’t tell you or anyone else how they’re feeling, we almost always try to talk with their parents to help diagnose depression,” says Dr. Beazel. “What the parents see, such as appetite or sleep changes, changes in level of activity or ability, or change in mood is paramount for us to best evaluate a child.”

            Does depression cause children to consider suicide?

            Thoughts of killing oneself can accompany depression — even in children, according to Dr. Beazel. “Although relatively rare in children under 12, young children do attempt suicide.”

            Suicidal thoughts, also known as suicidal ideation, may not always be obvious to others, even the child’s parents. In fact, teen and adolescent suicides have continued to rise dramatically in recent years. According to a recent study in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology, among young people, rates of suicidal thoughts, plans and attempts increased significantly — and in some cases doubled — between 2008 and 2017.

            Signs of suicidal thoughts may be apparent in the child’s social behaviors, what they watch on television, the websites they visit, and through journal entries or on their homework. “In the majority of cases where a child is admitted for inpatient treatment of depression, they have made some comment or gesture that makes people concerned they may hurt themselves,” states Dr. Beazel.

            Which children get depressed?

            While depression is significantly more common in boys under age 10, girls have a greater incidence of depression by age 16. During adolescence, young women are almost twice as likely to be depressed as young men — and these women continue to have a higher likelihood of depression in their adult years.

            “It appears adolescent females tend to have depression complaints more frequently, with some theorizing that this difference may be related to hormonal changes,” says Dr. Beazel. “There are also often more social demands and expectations on females in terms of behavior and conforming, which can contribute to additional stresses for females.”

            What are the treatment options for children with depression?

            Treatment options for children with depression are similar to those used for adults, including psychotherapy (counseling) and medication. Your child’s doctor may suggest either medications or psychotherapy first, but research has shown the best treatment for those with a true depressive disorder is the combination of medication and therapy, according to Dr. Beazel.

            “Some people may have concerns about using medications due to possible side-effects and these concerns should be discussed with the medical provider, but again, research indicates the best outcome for seriously depressed individuals tends to be from using therapy/counseling and antidepressant medication together,” he states.

            Oftentimes medications tend to have a more rapid effect, and psychotherapeutic efforts may enable the patient to recognize and cope with problems more effectively. “One major concern is many kids who’ve been depressed, are facing depression or have been diagnosed with depression are at a greater risk of being diagnosed with depression again later,” Dr. Beazel explains.

            Clearly if a seriously depressed youth is considered to be at risk for hurting themselves, medical intervention may be critical, and inpatient treatment is usually undertaken, explains Dr. Beazel.

            “Youth that are hospitalized for depression and/or suicidal concerns generally receive both psychotropic medication as well as various forms of psychotherapeutic interventions, such as group therapies,” he states. “Psychotherapy can teach kids to recognize and cope with problems and situations that may have been difficult before — as well as responding more effectively to new challenges.”

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            How to Be Positive in a Negative World

            Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on

            How to Be Positive in a Negative World

            It's easy to slip into negativity with all that's going on in the world. 2020 has certainly been "one for the books," with the utter devastation of COVID-19. However, experts like Dr. Howard Beazel, Psychologist at Genesis Behavioral Health, says it's important for individuals to find ways to keep their mental wellness in a healthy state.

            For Outpatient Inquires Call (740) 454-5927

            One tactic he recommends is to recognize the reality of the situation and understand what you can and cannot control. "It's okay to be a little distressed; it's healthy to recognize the reality of it. Recognize what you do have control over. I don't have control over my neighbors or people in the street, but I can wear a mask. I can wash [my] hands. That control gives you some sense of competency, and that tends to lead to more positive things."

            Another strategy is to distinguish between “social” distancing and “physical” distancing. What we really should be practicing is physical distancing.

            “We need to make extra effort to be as sociable as we can, because the COVID-19 situation is making it so much harder. There are ways to be sociable,” states Dr. Beazel. “I have a daughter who lives in Singapore, but we communicate fairly regularly by telephone and FaceTime. We need to keep connected with the people we love and care about. And at times like this, we probably need to make a little extra effort to do so.”

            Positive Strategies, Pandemic or Not

            There will be a time when COVID-19 doesn’t seem so suffocating. Even then, there will be scenarios when individuals may feel down and become overwhelmed with negative thoughts. Dr. Beazel offers a few tips to meet the negativity and overcome it.

            1) Evaluate what you think makes you happy… does it really? We’re often taught that money can bring happiness. While that may be true to an extent, true joy typically comes from meaningful relationships.

            2) Practice positivity! Like anything, the more you practice the better you’ll become. Be intentional with your positivity. You can even document it in a journal, such as acts of kindness you encounter or things for which you’re thankful.

            3) Understand the physiological response negativity causes. The more negative we tend to be, the more stressed we tend to be, which affects the body’s autonomic nervous system. Repeated stress can lead to high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart problems, as well as chronic headaches and gastrointestinal issues.

            4) If you can’t remove yourself, physically, from a stressful or negative situation (e.g. being stuck in traffic), practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing. Regular exercise is also helpful for keeping your mind on an even keel.

            Overall, Dr. Beazel says success in any of these strategies relies on being purposeful.

            “I think we all need to do things on purpose, especially at times like this. I focus on the positive, but I do it on purpose. Sometimes I have to practice and step back and say, wait, let's take a breath. Let's relax. Let's look at this differently. Let's see if there's a better perspective here. That'll work better for me. Try to engage meaningfully with others, try to get [your body] moving, and try to see things from another perspective.”

             

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