Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo Hosts Youth Mental Health Roundtable on Psychotropic Medication Guidance

ORLANDO, Fla. — Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo hosted a roundtable at the Florida Department of Health in Orange County, bringing together leaders from education, health care, and behavioral health to discuss youth mental health and highlight the Department’s guidance on psychotropic medications for children.

The Department’s guidance encourages health care providers to conduct comprehensive evaluations before initiating treatment, assess environmental and lifestyle factors that may affect a child’s well-being, and providing psychotherapy and other evidence-based options before considering psychotropic medications when appropriate.

During today’s roundtable, participants discussed opportunities to strengthen support systems for children and families and promote collaboration among health care professionals, educators, parents, and community leaders. The discussion highlighted the importance of ensuring families have access to information about the benefits, risks, and available alternatives when making decisions regarding a child’s care.

“Mental health challenges among youth can affect physical health, academic performance, social development, and overall quality of life,” said State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo. “As more families seek support for conditions such as anxiety, depression, and attention-deficit disorders, treatment should be guided by a thorough understanding of each child’s unique circumstances and needs. Parents deserve access to clear information about the benefits, risks, and available alternatives so they can make informed decisions regarding their children’s health.”

“Our agency cares deeply about ensuring children receive the care they need. That is why Florida Medicaid covers a comprehensive array of services,” said Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Shevaun L. Harris. “Psychotropic medications can play an important role in treatment when they are clinically appropriate and medically necessary, but they should never be used as a substitute for individual therapy and other psychosocial care options. We will continue to work in partnership with the Department of Health to ensure parents can make informed and the best decisions for their child.”

The Florida Department of Health remains committed to protecting, promoting, and improving the health of Florida’s children and families by providing information and resources that support informed health care decisions.