By Hema Vyas M.D. Psychiatrist
Meet Dr. Hema Vyas, M.D., a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist who takes an individualized, whole-person approach to mental health.
For teenagers, mental health can be affected by a lot more than what is happening emotionally. School, friendships, family life, sleep, nutrition, stress, and major changes during adolescence can all play a role in how a teen feels and functions day to day.
Looking at the Whole Picture
Every teenager is different, which is why treatment should be personalized. When a teen is struggling with anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, or problems with sleep, there can be several factors contributing to those symptoms. The goal is to better understand what a teenager is experiencing and create a treatment plan that fits their specific needs.
Dr. Vyas uses precision medicine to explore factors that may contribute to a child’s symptoms. When appropriate, lab testing can assess nutrient levels and provide information about how a person may process certain medications. More detailed genetic testing may also be considered to help guide treatment decisions.
Integrative functional psychiatry looks beyond symptoms to consider the foundations that support mental well-being. Nutrients such as magnesium, zinc, copper, and omega fatty acids play important roles in the body’s processes, including those involved in mood. Testing can help identify areas that may need attention as part of an individualized care plan.
Dr. Vyas also considers the gut–brain connection. The balance of gut bacteria may be one factor associated with mood, concentration, and overall functioning. When clinically appropriate, testing can help assess the gut microbiome and inform strategies to support gut health.
Understanding Teen Mental Health
The teenage years can come with a lot of pressure. Schoolwork, sports, social situations, relationships, college planning, and changes at home can all contribute to stress.
It is normal for teenagers to have ups and downs, but ongoing changes in mood or behavior may be worth paying attention to. Signs such as withdrawing from friends and family, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty keeping up with school, increased anxiety, or losing interest in activities they normally enjoy can be reasons for parents to reach out for professional support.
A Personalized Integrative Approach for Teens
Dr. Vyas offers an integrative, functional, and holistic approach to mental health care. Her integrative approach allows mental health to be considered alongside other areas of health and daily life. Care is tailored to each individual, with the goal of understanding contributing factors and developing a thoughtful treatment plan. Testing and treatment recommendations depend on a person’s needs.
Whether you are seeking child, adolescent, or adult psychiatry, she provides precision treatment tailored to each individual’s unique biology, symptoms, history, lifestyle, needs, and personal goals.
Understanding the unique challenges individuals and families may face, Dr. Vyas delivers compassionate, personalized care through convenient in-person or virtual psychiatry and therapy services.
Mental health treatment is not one-size-fits-all, and building trust can make a big difference. For parents, knowing when to seek help can sometimes be difficult. If changes in your teenager’s mood, behavior, sleep, school performance, or overall well-being are continuing or becoming more noticeable, speaking with a mental health professional can be a good place to start.
