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You want to bottle them up and send them from elementary school straight to high school graduation because let’s face it, middle and some parts of high school are really emotionally difficult for girls. May is Mental health Awareness Month, a month where we continue or begin for some, the conversations about the importance of caring for our mental health. In this episode Dr. Virgil discusses the challenges faced by middle and high school girls in their friendships, connections, isolation and the impact on depression and suicide. 

She gives helpful tips for parents, acknowledging loneliness, helping teens with difficult friendships, begin a dialogue on mental health wellness with your teen that can last all year long.  Listen in and let’s talk!  

The 5 C’s of mental health 

Connection, Compassion, Coping, Community, and Caring.

https://247dct.org/what-are-the-5-cs-of-mental-health/#:~:text=The%205%20C's%20of%20mental%20health%E2%80%94Connection%2C%20Compassion%2C%20Coping,our%20overall%20quality%20of%20life.

*this is not a substitute for care from your provider*

*If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or considering thoughts of suicide, please seek immediate care from a local provider*

Girls Mental Health 

https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/girls-are-struggling-with-their-mental-health-heres-what

Mental Health Statistics

https://compasshealthcenter.net/blog/teen-mental-health-statistics/

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Motherhood is stressful for so many at different times in their parenting journey. Many mothers battle with the hidden signs of stress and overwhelm. They feel the need to be perfect and joyful in public but are drowning under the mental load of carrying so much for their children. Especially mothers who feel like they don’t have support from family or friends and are doing it all on their own.

In this episode, Dr. Virgil discusses the mental load of motherhood. She asks the important question, where is the village/community? She gives some practical tips of encouragement for mothers to build a village/community around them and their children.  Listen in and let’s chat!  

Depleted Mother Syndrome (DMS)/Maternal Burnout Syndrome describes the experience of a mother feeling emotionally, mentally, and physically exhausted due to the overwhelming demands of parenting. 

*this is not a substitute for care from your provider*

*If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or considering thoughts of suicide, please seek immediate care from a local provider*

Links:

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/depleted-mother-syndrome-and-mom-burnout#:~:text=%E2%80%9DDepleted%20mother%20syndrome%E2%80%9D%20isn',decision%2Dmaking%2C%E2%80%9D%20Dr

https://www.parents.com/depleted-mother-syndrome-8717198#:~:text=Depleted%20mother%20syndrome%20(or%20maternal,caregivers%20and%20%22default%20parents.%22

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Have comments or want to chat?

Reach out to Dr. V and let’s connect!

The Children’s Wellness Spot Instagram: @themommydoc1

Email The Children’s Wellness Spot @[email protected] 

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Recently, there's been a surge in awareness about vaccines, sparking important conversations among parents. As they seek answers, some are left wondering: should they be concerned? What are the current challenges surrounding childhood vaccines? Can we work together to address the uncertainty and misinformation that's driving distrust? What can we learn from the unknowns, such as the causes of Autism? By exploring these questions, we can empower ourselves and our communities to make informed decisions.

Listen in and let’s chat! Grab a cup of coffee or tea, pull up a chair, and settle in for another great conversation with Dr. Bande Virgil, also known as Dr. V, a board-certified pediatrician and parent, as she shares valuable easy to understand insight on your kids' health, teens' well-being, and ways to nurture your family. 

*this is not a substitute for care from your child’s provider*

***Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss a new episode!

Have comments or want to chat?

Reach out to Dr. V :

The Children’s Wellness Spot Instagram: @themommydoc1

Email The Children’s Wellness Spot @[email protected] 

Additional reliable resources: 

Reliable American Academy of Pediatrics Source on Vaccines

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/immunizations/Pages/Weighing-the-Risks-and-Benefits.aspx

CDC childhood vaccine standard schedule:

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/imz-schedules/downloads/child/0-18yrs-child-combined-schedule.pdf

Previous episode on the challenge of misinformation: 

 Battling Kids Health Misinformation: 

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-childrens-wellness-spot/id1636075037?i=1000690075400

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The news frequently highlights extreme weather events. In response to the recent devastating tornados in the South and Midwest, Dr. Virgil examines the effects of extreme weather on children in this episode. Parents are seeking advice on alleviating their children's storm-related fears. What strategies can you employ to help your child feel more secure during storms? Engage in this empowering conversation over a cup of coffee or tea and let’s chat!

If storms have affected your family, don't forget to get help for your child.

This data from JAMA on youth after experiencing Hurricane Maria is eye opening! 

Youth reported high levels of post-traumatic stress disorder and symptoms of depression after Hurricane Maria. A survey of more than 90,000 students found that over 80% saw houses damaged, over 45% experienced damage to their own homes, nearly 30% thought their lives were at risk, and over 15% had no electricity for five to nine months after the hurricane. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2731679

Stormy anxiety symptoms that are concerning that your child should receive help for:

https://www.childrens.com/health-wellness/how-to-help-your-child-with-storm-anxiety

-Changes in sleep habits
-Nightmares
-Bedwetting or toilet accidents
-Irritability and difficulty concentrating
-Unexplained physical complaints such as headaches and stomach aches
-Refusal to leave home or to separate for any length of time from you due to storm anxiety

Feel free to connect and share your experiences via following me on Instagram at: themommydoc1 

Email: The Children’s Wellness Spot Podcast at [email protected]

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Why is it crucial for kids to learn about women's history? Can it empower them to challenge stereotypes and create a more inclusive future? Dr. Virgil explores these questions in a timely conversation about Women's History, highlighting a remarkable woman who paved the way for future generations. She offers three practical strategies for incorporating women's history into your kids' and teens' lives, emphasizing its potential to inspire purpose, emotional well-being, and positive change. So pull up a seat and let’s talk!

The Kids Guide: Celebrate Women’s History Month

https://thekidsguide.com/celebrate-womens-history-month-with-the-kids-guide/

15 Books to Celebrate Women’s History Month for Kids

https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/childrens-books-to-celebrate-womens-history-month

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/i-know-why-the-caged-bird-sings-maya-angelou/1100392955;jsessionid=57221BA98D9D898CFC7002B730E3E758.prodny_store01-atgap15?ean=9780812980028

Women’s History Month Activities, Spreadsheets and More!

https://kidskonnect.com/articles/womens-history-month-for-kids/

Feel free to connect and share your experiences via following me on Instagram at: themommydoc1 

Email: The Children’s Wellness Spot Podcast at [email protected]

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Welcome Back to the Spot! What the heck are Measles? Are Measles Deadly? Measles are popping in the US according to a recent AP Press News article. They are spreading in Texas and other places, but what does that mean? Should you be freaking out? Do you need to put your children in a bubble? Join Dr. V for this really important conversation. Get some clear understanding on what measles actually is. You are not alone in a sea of misinformation about your kids health. 

This is not a substitute for medical care.  If you or a family member have concerns, please reach out to your doctor or other immediate physician for care. 

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Welcome Back to the Spot! 2025 came in kicking and screaming! As we launched season 3 it became more clear that parents are feeling ANXIOUS . Join Dr. V for this important series on battling misinformation about your kids health. You are not alone in a sea of confusion. Who is your village? Who are your trusted voices? You need them now more than ever, let’s talk about it. 

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Getting unstuck is so critical to making the next best decisions when you are dealing with a diagnosis of Autism in your child or family member. How do parents and families get stuck, what are the barriers? In this episode we talk about Autism Acceptance in the most simple terms so you can get unstuck. 

Remember from our last episode the parent mantra? I am a good parent. Carry that with you always. This is not your fault, guilt is one way parents get stuck. Join Dr. V for this episode and let’s talk!

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Parenting toddlers requires a lot of patience and grace, not just for the toddlers but the parents too! Parents of toddlers have made it past the sleepless newborn nights, first feedings, and now are thrust into the tumultuous and exciting—but yes, a bit exhausting world of toddler parenting. Dr. Virgil discusses toddler tantrums, their impact on parent self esteem, and some survival tips! Remember this toddler parent mantra, “I am a good parent. I am a good parent.” Let’s talk!

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As February ends, Dr. Virgil’s discusses matters of the heart, teen relationships. February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Did you know according to the Center for Disease Control, 1 in 3 teens experiences abuse;  emotional, physical or sexual in dating before they become an adult? Here’s a helpful acronym to help you talk with teens about sensitive issues. Also, learn some pillars to share with teens about healthy relationships. We can make a difference in their lives. So let’s chat!