Arbor Pediatrics provides high-quality, personalized medical care for infants, children, and adolescents in Southlake, TX.

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a reminder that one of the most important things we can do for teens is create a home where they feel safe talking about their emotions.

Teens don`t need parents who have all the answers, they need trusted adults who will listen without judgment.

It`s normal for teens to have good days and bad days, but persistent sadness, withdrawing from friends and activities, changes in sleep or appetite, declining school performance, increased irritability, or talking about feeling hopeless are signs that deserve attention. Starting conversations early, and having them often, helps teens know they can come to you with anything.

One of the biggest myths about suicide is that asking someone if they are thinking about suicide will "put the idea in their head."

Research has shown that this is not true. In fact, asking directly and compassionately can open the door to an important conversation and help someone feel seen and supported.
Most importantly, remind your teen that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Mental health is just as important as physical health, and no one should struggle alone.

Are you concerned with your teen’s mental health? Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment to speak with a pediatric trained provider.

When the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine was introduced in 2006, it changed the future of cancer prevention.

HPV is an extremely common virus. Nearly everyone will be exposed to it at some point in their lifetime. While many HPV infections clear on their own, some can lead to cervical, throat, anal, penile, vaginal, and vulvar cancers years later.

The HPV vaccine works best when given before exposure to the virus, which is why it is routinely recommended starting between 9-11 years of age. At this age, the immune system produces an especially strong response to the vaccine, providing long-lasting protection.

Since the HPV vaccine was introduced, infections with the HPV types that cause most HPV-related cancers and genital warts have dropped dramatically in vaccinated populations. Today, we have the opportunity to prevent many cancers before they ever begin.

Has your child turned 9?

Ask us about the HPV vaccine at their next well visit. The providers at Arbor Pediatrics are happy to answer your questions and discuss how this vaccine helps protect your child for years to come.

Did you know that just one blistering sunburn during childhood can nearly double a person`s risk of developing melanoma later in life?

That`s why healthy sun habits should start early and continue year-round—not just during the summer.

Help protect your child by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher about 15–30 minutes before going outside and reapplying every 2 hours (or sooner after swimming or sweating). Dress children in lightweight protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses when possible, and seek shade during peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. For infants younger than 6 months, it`s best to avoid direct sun exposure and use shade and protective clothing whenever possible.

Remember, UV rays can still cause sun damage on cloudy days and during cooler weather, making sun protection a year-round habit.

As parents, our instinct is to protect our children from disappointment, failure, and heartache. While we should always keep them safe, we don`t have to rescue them from every uncomfortable feeling. In fact, experiencing age-appropriate challenges helps children develop resilience, confidence, problem-solving skills, and emotional strength.

Whether it`s not making the team, earning a disappointing grade, having a disagreement with a friend, or losing a game, these moments can become valuable learning opportunities. Instead of immediately fixing the problem, try listening, validating their feelings, and helping them think through possible solutions.

Children who learn to work through disappointment with the support of a caring adult are often better prepared to handle life`s bigger challenges later on.

Remember, our goal isn`t to raise children who never struggle, it`s to raise adults who know they can overcome struggles.

If it feels like your child is constantly battling ear infections, you`re not alone.

Recurrent ear infections are one of the most common reasons children are referred to an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist. In general, your pediatrician may discuss ear tubes if your child has 3 or more ear infections in 6 months, or 4 or more ear infections in 12 months (with at least one occurring in the past 6 months).

Ear tubes may also be recommended if fluid remains behind the eardrum for several months and is affecting hearing or speech development.

Ear tubes are tiny tubes placed through the eardrum that help ventilate the middle ear and allow fluid to drain, reducing pressure and improving hearing.

One common misconception is that tubes prevent ear infections. They do not prevent infections from occurring. Instead, they help reduce the frequency and severity of infections, make infections easier to treat, and allow antibiotic ear drops to be used instead of oral antibiotics in many cases.

The decision to place ear tubes is based on your child`s history, hearing, speech development, and how much recurrent infections are affecting their daily life.

If your child seems to have "another ear infection" every few weeks or has persistent fluid behind the eardrum, call our office. We can evaluate your child, monitor their ears over time, and determine whether an ENT referral may be appropriate.

Graduating college is a major milestone and it`s also a great time to take ownership of your healthcare.

As you transition into the next chapter, there are a few important health-related tasks that can help set you up for success.

Consider creating a healthcare checklist that includes:
✔️ Establishing care with an adult primary care provider
✔️ Understanding your health insurance coverage and any upcoming changes
✔️ Refilling medications before starting a new job or moving to a new city
✔️ Keeping a copy of your vaccine record and medical history
✔️ Learning how to schedule appointments, request refills, and access your patient portal
✔️ Knowing where to seek care for routine, urgent, and emergency health needs

Taking charge of your healthcare is an important part of becoming an independent adult. The habits you build now can have a positive impact on your health for years to come.

Recent graduates, what`s one adulting skill you wish someone had taught you sooner? Share your advice in the comments to help the next group of graduates prepare for life after college.

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