CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY

The Recognition and Prevention Program (RAP)

The Recognition and Prevention (RAP) Program is a specialty program aimed at identifying and treating adolescents and young adults with early signs of mental illness. The mission of the program is to prevent the development of serious mental illness and to promote healthy functioning.

The RAP Program is both a clinic and a National Institute of Mental Health funded research center. It is sponsored by Schneider Children's Hospital and the Zucker Hillside Hospital of the North Shore Long Island Jewish Health System. Our clinic serves young people primarily between the ages of 12 and 22, who may be experiencing recent changes in their thoughts and feelings. Staff psychologists and psychiatrists meet with both the adolescents or young adults and their parents to discuss these concerns.

Who is eligible for the RAP Program?



People at risk often show behaviors such as:

¨ Withdrawing from friends and family
¨ Preferring to be alone
¨ A drop in school performance
¨ Seeming less motivated
¨ Appearing depressed
¨ A reduced ability to concentrate
¨ Changes in sleep or energy level
¨ Increased anxiety or agitation
¨ Irritability
¨ Moodiness

Other behaviors of particular concern are:

¨ Mistrustfulness or suspiciousness
¨ Changes in personal hygiene
¨ Emotions that do not fit the situation
¨ Vague speech
¨ Speech sometimes doesn't make sense
¨ Unusual ideas or beliefs
¨ Unusual experiences

If either you or your son or daughter is experiencing any of the behavior changes listed above, call (516) 470-6430 to see if you are eligible for our comprehensive evaluation. Clinicians whose patients are exhibiting these behaviors may also contact us at (516) 470-6430 to make referrals or seek consultation.