How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit About Low Mood in Children

Audience: pediatric

Low mood in children can affect their daily activities, school performance, and relationships. Telemedicine offers a convenient way to discuss these concerns with a healthcare provider from home. To get the most from a telemedicine visit, it helps to prepare by gathering information about your child's symptoms, behaviors, and any recent changes in their life. During the visit, the provider may ask about mood patterns, sleep, appetite, and social interactions. Telemedicine can help identify common causes of low mood and suggest next steps, including therapy or further evaluation. However, if your child shows signs of severe distress or danger, in-person care is essential. Preparing well and knowing when to seek urgent help can make telemedicine visits effective and supportive for your child's mental health.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Your child talks about or shows signs of self-harm or suicide — seek emergency care immediately.
• Sudden, severe changes in behavior or confusion that affect safety — go to the nearest emergency department.
• Inability to eat, sleep, or care for themselves for several days — seek urgent in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of mild to moderate low mood symptoms in children.
• Follow-up visits to monitor mood and treatment progress.
• Providing guidance on coping strategies and referrals to counseling.
• Answering questions about symptoms and general mental health advice.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations involving suicidal thoughts or self-harm.
• Severe psychiatric crises requiring immediate in-person intervention.
• Complex diagnostic assessments needing physical examination or testing.
• Medication management requiring close monitoring that cannot be done remotely.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

During the telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will ask questions about your child's mood, behavior, and daily activities. They may inquire about sleep patterns, appetite, energy levels, and any recent stressors or changes at home or school. It is helpful to have notes ready about when symptoms started and how they affect your child. The provider may also ask about any thoughts of self-harm or harm to others. This information helps them understand your child's needs and recommend appropriate care.

How to Prepare for the Telemedicine Visit

To prepare for the visit, find a quiet, private space with good internet or phone connection. Have a list of your child's symptoms, any medications or supplements they take, and questions you want to ask. If possible, include observations from teachers or caregivers. Make sure your child is comfortable and knows what to expect. Test the technology beforehand to avoid delays. Having a trusted adult present during the visit can also be helpful.

When Telemedicine Is Appropriate for Low Mood

Telemedicine is often suitable for initial discussions about mild to moderate low mood symptoms, monitoring treatment progress, or follow-up visits. It allows for convenient access to mental health support without travel. Providers can offer guidance, recommend counseling, and discuss lifestyle changes. Telemedicine can also help identify if in-person evaluation or urgent care is needed.

When to Seek In-Person Care Immediately

If your child shows any signs of severe distress, such as talking about suicide, self-harm, or harming others, sudden changes in behavior, confusion, or inability to care for themselves, seek emergency in-person care immediately. Telemedicine cannot replace urgent medical or psychiatric evaluation in these situations. Always prioritize safety and call emergency services if needed.

Supporting Your Child After the Telemedicine Visit

After the visit, follow the provider's recommendations, which may include scheduling counseling, monitoring symptoms, or adjusting routines. Keep communication open with your child and provide a supportive environment. If symptoms worsen or new concerns arise, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Remember that managing low mood is often a gradual process requiring patience and support.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, private space with good internet or phone connection.
• Have a list of your child's symptoms, including when they started and how they affect daily life.
• Prepare information about current medications or supplements your child is taking.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss with the provider.
• Test your device and connection before the appointment to avoid technical issues.
• Ensure your child is comfortable and understands the purpose of the visit.
• Have a trusted adult present during the visit if appropriate.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's recommendations for counseling, medication, or lifestyle changes.
• Monitor your child's mood and behavior regularly and note any changes.
• Keep communication open with your child to provide emotional support.
• Schedule follow-up appointments as advised by the provider.
• Seek immediate care if your child shows any red flag symptoms or worsening condition.
• Reach out to mental health resources or support groups if recommended.

FAQs

Can telemedicine visits effectively help with my child's low mood?

Yes, telemedicine can be an effective way to discuss your child's low mood, especially for initial evaluations and follow-ups. It allows convenient access to healthcare providers who can assess symptoms, provide guidance, and recommend treatment or referrals. However, telemedicine may not replace the need for in-person care in emergencies or complex cases.

What should I do if my child becomes suicidal or shows self-harm behaviors?

If your child talks about suicide, shows self-harm behaviors, or you believe they are in immediate danger, seek emergency in-person care right away. Call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital. Telemedicine is not suitable for managing urgent mental health crises.

How can I prepare my child for a telemedicine visit about their mood?

Explain to your child what to expect during the visit in simple terms. Find a quiet, comfortable space where they feel safe. Encourage them to share how they feel honestly. Having a trusted adult present can help your child feel supported during the visit.

Will the provider prescribe medication during a telemedicine visit?

Sometimes, providers may discuss medication options during telemedicine visits, but prescribing depends on the provider's assessment and local regulations. Medication management may require follow-up visits and monitoring, which can be done via telemedicine or in person.

What if my internet connection is poor during the telemedicine visit?

If your connection is unstable, try to switch to a better network or use a phone call if video is not possible. Inform the provider if technical issues interfere with the visit so alternative arrangements can be made.

Sources

1. Depression in Children and Teens — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Child and Adolescent Mental Health — World Health Organization.
3. Telehealth for Mental Health Care — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Depression in Children and Adolescents: Clinical Practice Guideline — American Academy of Pediatrics.
5. Telemedicine: Opportunities and Developments in Member States — World Health Organization.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If your child experiences emergency symptoms or severe distress, seek immediate in-person evaluation.