Child and Adolescent Diabetes Program highlighted for integrated care during SAMHSA National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day

Maureen Monaghan, Ph.D., CDE, clinical and pediatric psychologist and certified diabetes educator in the Children’s National Child and Adolescent Diabetes Program, participated in a panel emphasizing the integration of physical and mental health in the care of young patients as part of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day on May 4. SAMHSA also spotlighted the Child and Adolescent Diabetes Program as an exemplar of integrated mental and physical healthcare for children and adolescents.

The event theme, “Partnering for Help and Hope,” focused on the importance of integrating behavioral health and primary care for children, youth, and young adults with mental and/or substance abuse disorders.

As a licensed clinical psychologist and a certified diabetes educator, Dr. Monaghan works with young patients and their families to develop positive habits managing their mental health and physical well-being while living with diabetes.  A medical diagnosis comes with new medications and doctor visits, but also new daily routines at home that can bring on great change and potential anxiety for patients and families. Families in the Children's National Child and Adolescent Diabetes Program benefit from a full team of providers who integrate mental health and medical care to provide treatment beyond the physical ailment.

To learn more about the Child and Adolescent Diabetes Program, call 202-476-2121.

Video: Mental Health Care for Diabetes Patients