Dependent Mental Health at Applegreen

At Applegreen, we care about the mental health of our employees and their families. Compared to similar organizations in our industry, Applegreen's mental health costs are significantly higher than the norm. Our claims data show that we have dependents of our employees that are dealing with mental health issues, and with the start of a new school year approaching, as well as the uncertainties surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on helping our employees and their families find effective resources to address mental health issues is more important than ever.

of patients treated for Depression were under 19.

of Depression-related outpatient visits were from those under 19.

What is Depression?

Depression is a common but serious illness that has no single cause, but it likely results from a mix of genetic, biochemical, environmental and psychological factors. Read this overview of types of depression, diagnosis, and treatment.

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Symptoms of Depression in Children and Adolescents

Eating more or less than usual

Apathy around school or other activities previously enjoyed

Changes in sleeping patterns

Feeling or acting tired or having trouble concentrating in school or activities

Spending less time with friends, family, or in after school activities

Feeling, acting or appearing depressed, irritable, tearful, or suicidal

Finding Effective Solutions

Whether your child is already known to be suffering from depression or you have recently recognized symptoms, there are many resources available to you including telehealth information, assistance finding a provider, and information on how diet, sleep, exercise, and electronic devices could be affecting your child's mental health.

Factors Influencing Dependent Mental Health

Nutritious Eating

Eating behaviors can affect a child's mental health. Establishing healthy habits early has lasting benefits on both mental and physical health.

Regular Exercise

The benefits of regular exercise include improved psychological well-being. Check out these exercise recommendations for each age group.

Sleep and Device Use

Sleep is critical for mental health. If your child is having a hard time falling or staying asleep, electronic devices could be to blame.

Daily Mental Health

Check out this video on the importance of implementing daily mental health practices, applicable to both adults and children.

Screen Time

A recent study found that the amount of time teens spend using electronics (e.g., social media or TV) may be linked to higher rates of depression.

Caffeine

Too much caffeine can worsen existing depression symptoms in children such as irritability, headaches, and difficulty concentrating.

Utilizing Telehealth for Mental Health

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Health Coaching

Telehealth enables you to meet with a mental health professional from the comfort of your own home. This option is more beneficial than ever give the current COVID-19 concerns, as it allows you to electronically meet with a provider rather than go to an office. Telehealth also generally provides a greater range of available providers, and can come at lower cost. Watch the video about the benefits of telehealth, then click the links below for information on the services available to you.

Finding A Mental Health Provider

Selecting a provider is an important decision that should be made carefully. Read the attached information on types of providers and questions you should ask when selecting one. Once you're ready, click the link to search for a provider who best serves your needs.

Find A Provider

Mental Health During COVID-19

The coronavirus pandemic has changed what a normal day looks like for both adults and children across the country. Maintaining a child's mental health during these uncertain times can be challenging, especially if you’re not sure how to get started. If you’re self-quarantining or practicing social distancing, keep the following tips in mind to maintain your family's mental well-being.

Maintaining Mental Well-Being

Meditation and Mental Health

Applegreen Dependent Mental Health