Central Florida behavioral health program aims to protect teens

Central Florida Behavioral Health Program Aims to Protect Teens

A new program by Nemours Children's Health provides mental health resources to children and teens at their primary care doctors' offices.

According to health workers, this program aims to address the rising issue of teen suicides in Central Florida.

A 2023 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that 20% of high school students who frequently use social media experienced feelings of hopelessness and seriously considered self-harm.

Monica Barreto, clinical director of Behavioral Health with Nemours Primary Care-Florida, said her team is focused on getting teens help early.

The program strives to catch signs of trouble sooner to protect children's mental health.

Author's summary: Program helps teens access mental health resources.

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Spectrum News 13 Spectrum News 13 — 2025-10-17