If you are concerned about your child’s mental health, a great place to start is with a family doctor (also called a general practitioner (GP) or primary care physician). The doctor can provide care for many mental health and substance use issues.
Family doctors can often rule out other medical conditions and can sometimes:
- Diagnose mental health disorders
- Provide treatment
- Prescribe medications
The doctor might refer your child to specialized services if needed, such as:
- A doctor who specializes in the care of children (a pediatrician)
- A doctor who specializes in mental health
Your doctor will usually be involved and important for follow-up care even if you see a specialist or use other community services (such as Child & Youth Mental Health).
