Skip to Main Content

On Feb. 21, 2024, Change Healthcare experienced a cyber security incident. Any individuals impacted by this incident will receive a letter in the mail. To learn more about this from Change Healthcare, please click here or reach out to the contact center at 1-866-262-5342.

Mental Health Matters: Supporting Your Child's Wellbeing

Date: 05/01/24

Parents, May is Mental Health Awareness Month. We want to remind you that taking care of your child's mental health is just as important as taking care of their physical health.

Why mental health matters for children?

Just like adults, children can experience ups and downs. Sometimes, these feelings can be overwhelming and affect their daily lives. Mental health support can help children learn healthy ways to cope with these challenges.

Here in Louisiana, we know access to mental health resources can be a concern. But there's good news. As a Louisiana Healthcare Connections Medicaid member, your child has access to mental health services at no cost to you. This includes screenings, evaluations, and treatment from in-network providers.

Even Young Children Can Benefit from Support

You might think mental health concerns only affect teenagers, but that's not true! Children as young as preschool age can experience anxiety, depression, or behavioral issues. Early intervention is key, and with the right support, your child can develop healthy emotional habits that will last a lifetime.

Signs Your Child Might Need Help

Here are some signs to watch for that might indicate your child could benefit from a mental health evaluation:

  • Changes in mood or behavior (sadness, anger, withdrawal)
  • Difficulty sleeping or eating
  • Trouble concentrating in school
  • Frequent physical complaints
  • Social isolation

Getting Help

If you're concerned about your child's mental health, talk to their health care provider. They can screen your child, provide initial support, or refer you to a specialist. To find a provider, use our Find a Provider tool or call 1-866-595-8133 (TTY: 711).

Remember, you're not alone! Taking care of your child's mental health is an important part of their overall well-being. Don't hesitate to reach out for help. Louisiana Healthcare Connections can also help connect you to resources and specialists in your area. Just call us at 1-866-595-8133 (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, 7a.m. to 7p.m. We will work with you to make sure you get the care you need.

For a list of services covered by Louisiana Healthcare Connections, check out our Mental Health landing page. You can also view more information in our Member Handbook.