Have you ever heard someone say, “Depression runs in my family?” They are correct. Many mental health diagnoses have strong genetic and environmental components. In other words, your mental health is impacted by nature AND nurture.

Mental illnesses in parents represent a risk for children in the family. The risk is particularly strong when a parent has one or more of the following: Bipolar Disorder, an anxiety disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, a substance use disorder, or depression. When both parents are mentally ill, the chance is even greater than the child might become mentally ill. Early intervention can improve outcomes for children and parents, and it can improve family functioning.

As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have made it a priority in my practice to address the unique mental health status of each patient and family I work with. Our administrative staff can facilitate easy scheduling for you and your child on the same day to minimize trips and to decrease school and work disruption. Contact Central Iowa Psychological Services today to schedule an appointment so I can help your family meet their mental health wellness goals.