Newsletter Archives

Newsletters from the past year are posted below.

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adhd written in outline of head with pipe cleaners coming out

Initiating ADHD Treatment in your Pediatric Patients

Elizabeth Charney, MD and Amanda Myers, LCSW | Posted on October 29, 2024

ADHD is a common clinical topic that generates much discussion, controversy, and confusion. While specialists may be involved in determining drug suitability, primary care and general practitioners can play a crucial role in…

Person laying in bed next to homework on bed

Talking to Teens and Families About Sleep

Shawn Amador, LCSW | Posted on September 23, 2024

As teens are pulled in different directions amongst their biological and social needs, responsibilities, and technology, it is often hard for them to get enough sleep.

chalk board with back to school written and scissors chalk and binder clips

Back to School Stress and Anxiety

Amanda Myers, LCSW | Posted on August 30, 2024

For some patients, the end of summer signals the start of back-to-school stress. Both parents and children may face difficulties during this time. Fortunately, there are ways to ease the transition back to school by re-establishing a set schedule and

youth with plaid hoodie and hands in pocket

Non-Suicidal Self Injury: Screening and Intervention

Amanda Myers, LCSW | Posted on June 24, 2024

Self-harm is a rising concern with adolescents. Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) refers to self-harm without suicidal intent (1). Studies show that 1 in 5 people will experience NSSI in their lifetime, with the highest…

Family playing in water

Maintaining academic and social-emotional skills during the summer

Shawn Amador, LCSW | Posted on June 05, 2024

As the school year winds down and summer break approaches, parents and providers seek ways to maintain a child’s academic and social-emotional skills. Encourage families to set a semi-structured schedule and establish summer goals. This…

stethoscope and heart

What your colleagues are saying about Illinois DocAssist

Amanda Myers, LCSW | Posted on May 01, 2024

Illinois Doc Assist would like to take a moment to appreciate all the health care providers and school-based clinicians who regularly use our free psychiatric consultation and referral services. For providers who are…

mother kissing child

ACOG Updated Perinatal Mental Health Screening Protocols

Shawn Amador, LCSW | Posted on April 15, 2024

One out of seven are affected by Perinatal depression(1) which can affect mother to infant bonding (2).   In a study of pregnancy related deaths from 2017-2019, it was determined that 22.7% had underlying…

Child covering their ears.

Medication treatment options for pediatric anxiety disorders

Meghann Hennelly, MD | Posted on February 21, 2024

The mounting pressure of school and social stressors may lead to an increase in pediatric patients presenting to your care with anxiety. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) treatment should be offered first for mild…

Overcast snowy day with a woman pulling a child in a sled

How to Manage Seasonal Affective Disorder

Posted on January 24, 2024

As we enter the darkest days of the year, remember that seasonal mental health concerns are real. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is most common among…

Pineapple celebration

Illinois DocAssist is celebrating 15 years!

Posted on September 08, 2023

In the fall of 2008 we opened the Illinois DocAssist consultation line and have moved forward enthusiastically for the past fifteen years! Check out our short video featuring Illinois DocAssist consultants and staff celebrating 15…