Have More Babies

🎙 Understanding the Emotional Landscape of Childhood

• Michael Nwaneri, MD • Season 1 • Episode 74

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Have you ever wondered why your child's recurring stomachaches seem to flare up before tests or social gatherings? The answer might lie in the fascinating two-way relationship between physical and mental health in children. 

When we think about pediatric care, we often focus on growth charts, vaccinations, and treating illnesses. Yet pediatricians play a crucial role in monitoring and supporting children's mental wellbeing too. They're trained to recognize conditions ranging from anxiety and depression to ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, and autism spectrum disorders—often before these issues severely impact a child's life.

The signs of mental health challenges can be subtle but significant. Persistent physical symptoms without clear medical causes, changes in sleep patterns, social withdrawal, declining school performance, or constant worry might all signal that something deeper is happening. As parents, distinguishing between typical childhood ups and downs and more serious concerns can be challenging, which is why pediatricians serve as invaluable partners in this journey.

When concerns arise, pediatricians begin with conversations and standardized screening tools, potentially leading to more thorough evaluations when needed. Treatment approaches vary widely—from talk therapy and lifestyle adjustments to medication in certain cases—and may involve referrals to specialists like child psychiatrists, psychologists, or neuropsychologists for complex situations.

At home, families create the foundation for emotional wellbeing through open communication, positive relationships, healthy lifestyle habits, and modeling effective coping strategies. Remember that seeking help isn't a sign of failure—it's a demonstration of strength and commitment to your child's complete wellbeing. Consider what small changes might positively influence your child's mental health today, and don't hesitate to start a conversation with your pediatrician about any concerns you might have.

Visit the blog post: https://www.omegapediatrics.com/role-of-pediatrician-mental-health-care/

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Stella:

Welcome back to have More Babies. Today, we're really focusing in on something vital for every parent, and that's understanding your child's mental well-being. We've been looking at insights from Omega Pediatrics and what really stands out is how they view things this deep connection between a child's physical health and their mental state.

Matthew:

Exactly, and our goal today really is to help clarify how pediatricians fit into this picture. Right, you know how theyians fit into this picture. Right, you know how they support kids' mental health.

Stella:

Right.

Matthew:

We want to talk about what signs to maybe look out for and, crucially, when it's time to seek help. But you know, keep it straightforward.

Stella:

Okay, perfect, let's jump right into that connection. Then, physical and mental health. Well, it's more than just feeling a bit low when you have a cold, isn't it? Especially for kids? Oh Well, it's more than just feeling a bit low when you have a cold, isn't it, especially for kids?

Matthew:

Oh, absolutely yeah, it's fascinating really how it works both ways, like think about a child with chronic pain, maybe ongoing stomach issues, or something that can understandably lead to anxiety, maybe even depression.

Stella:

Yeah, that makes sense.

Matthew:

But then flip it around Anxiety or depression, those can actually cause real physical symptoms headaches, stomach aches. You know it's a definite two-way street.

Stella:

Wow, okay. So it's just as important to track their emotional well-being as it is their physical growth. Charts and checkups.

Matthew:

Precisely.

Stella:

And usually the pediatrician is the first person we call when something's up with our kids health-wise. So it's interesting how big their role is in mental health too.

Matthew:

They really are on the front lines, so to speak. Pediatricians are trained to spot potential mental health issues in kids and teenagers. They see a whole range of things.

Stella:

Like what specifically? What are some common things they encounter?

Matthew:

Well, the CDC mentioned several Things like ADHD, which affects attention, hyperactivity, sometimes impulsivity, and Tourette's syndrome, which involves those sudden tics, movements or sounds.

Stella:

Okay, and there's more right.

Matthew:

Oh yeah, there's OCD obsessive compulsive disorder with those recurring thoughts and behaviors, ptsd post-traumatic stress disorder which can happen after well a trauma.

Stella:

Am I involving flashbacks and nightmares Exactly?

Matthew:

Then you have anxiety, which is more than just normal worry. It's excessive fear or unease and depression, that persistent sadness, loss of interest in things they used to enjoy.

Stella:

It's quite a list. I think you also mentioned ODD and conduct disorder.

Matthew:

That's right. Odd or oppositional defiant disorder involves a pattern of uncooperative defiant behavior towards authority figures, of uncooperative defiant behavior towards authority figures and conduct disorder is more severe, often involving rule breaking, aggression, difficulty following social norms.

Stella:

And beyond those specific conditions.

Matthew:

Pediatricians are also screening for other really important things Autism spectrum disorder, for instance, learning disabilities too and they're looking out for really concerning signs like self-harm or potential substance use. Their initial role is quite broad.

Stella:

Got it. So for parents listening, what are we looking for? It feels like it could be hard sometimes to tell typical kid behavior from something well more serious.

Matthew:

That's a really important question. I mean, kids have big emotions, right, they have ups and downs. The key is looking for changes that are persistent, things that really start interfering with their daily life.

Stella:

Like school or friends.

Matthew:

Exactly School performance, their friendships, how they sleep, just their overall mood and ability to function day to day. When those things are consistently disrupted, that's when we pay closer attention.

Stella:

Okay, so what kind of behavioral changes might signal some things up.

Matthew:

Well, one thing is physical symptoms that don't seem to have a clear medical cause. You know, frequent headaches, maybe stomach pains that keep coming back, even things like rapid breathing or racing heartbeat, sometimes Digestive issues too. These can sometimes be the body expressing anxiety.

Stella:

Interesting, what else?

Matthew:

Sleep patterns are a big one. Is the child having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or maybe the opposite? Are they tired all the time, sleeping way more than usual?

Stella:

Okay, sleep disturbances Got it.

Matthew:

Also persistent worry that seems out of proportion, worrying intensely about, maybe, things that seem minor to others, or if a child starts pulling back, becoming more isolated, not wanting to do activities they used to love.

Stella:

Yeah, withdrawing socially.

Matthew:

Right, or just seeming constantly on edge, nervous, agitated, avoiding certain situations or places out of fear or anxiety. That's another potential sign.

Stella:

And I guess eating habits could change too.

Matthew:

Absolutely A noticeable change in appetite eating much more or much less than usual can definitely be linked to how they're feeling emotionally.

Stella:

Okay, any other flags?

Matthew:

Yeah, a few more. If a child starts giving up easily on tasks that challenge them, especially if they used to persevere, a significant dip in school performance is worth noting.

Stella:

Right.

Matthew:

And then there are the more direct emotional signs consistent sadness, irritability, just a generally low mood that doesn't seem to lift feelings of guilt or blaming themselves excessively.

Stella:

And obviously anything more serious.

Matthew:

Yes, absolutely. Any talk about death, dying or expressing thoughts of suicide needs immediate attention and professional help. No question.

Stella:

That's a very clear list, thank you. So if a parent does notice some of these things, what happens when they go to the pediatrician? What are the first steps?

Matthew:

Well, the pediatrician will usually start by talking, talking with the child, talking with the parents, asking about mood, behavior, what changes have been observed, just gathering information. They might also use what are called standardized screening tools. These are basically specific questionnaires designed to help assess mental health in a more structured way.

Stella:

Okay, like a checklist or something Sort of?

Matthew:

yeah, it helps quantify things a bit.

Stella:

Yeah.

Matthew:

And if those initial conversations and screenings suggest there might be something going on, then what thinks of it? And if those initial conversations and screenings suggest there might be something going on, then they'll likely recommend a more thorough pediatric mental health evaluation.

Stella:

This could involve maybe a more detailed psychological assessment, or perhaps developmental screening, depending on the concerns, okay, and what kind of help or treatment plan might come out of that evaluation?

Matthew:

It really depends on the child and the specific situation, of course, but a mental health care plan could include several things. Psychotherapy or talk therapy is very common. Sometimes medication might be considered if it's appropriate and carefully managed, and connecting the family with other support services in the community is often part of the plan too. It's tailored.

Stella:

That makes sense. It's good to know there are different options. What if it seems like a really complex issue? Does the pediatrician handle everything?

Matthew:

Not always. Pediatricians are excellent for initial assessment and managing many common issues, but if things are more complex or if a very specific diagnosis is needed, they will often refer the family to a specialist. They act as a crucial bridge to more specialized care.

Stella:

Okay, that's good to know. Can you tell us a bit about who those other specialists might be?

Matthew:

Sure, there are several types of professionals, for example, developmental and behavioral pediatricians. They have extra training focused specifically on kids' development and behavior assessment, diagnosis, making treatment plans. Okay, then there are child and adolescent psychiatrists. These are medical doctors, so they specialize in mental health for young people and they can prescribe medication if needed.

Stella:

Right psychiatrists or MDs? What about psychologists?

Matthew:

Good distinction. Clinical child psychologists usually have a doctorate, like a PhD or a PSID. They're experts in children's mental health therapy and assessment. They often work closely with psychiatrists, especially if medication is involved.

Stella:

Got it Any others?

Matthew:

Yes, sometimes a neurologist might be involved if there's a question about the nervous system contributing to the mental health picture.

Stella:

Hmm, and I've heard of neuropsychologists too. How are they different?

Matthew:

Neuropsychologists focus on the brain behavior connection. They do specialized testing to look at things like learning, memory, problem solving skills and how brain function might relate to mental health or learning issues. Very helpful for things like learning disabilities or complex cases.

Stella:

Okay, and what about support within schools?

Matthew:

Right. School psychologists are a great resource. They work right in the school, support students, use school records, talk with parents and teachers and can make recommendations for help. And one more Licensed Clinical Social Workers, or LCSW. They usually have a master's degree in social work and are trained to evaluate mental health concerns and create treatment plans for people of all ages, including children.

Stella:

Wow. Ok, so there really is a whole network of support available. But going back to the family, their role must be huge in all of this.

Matthew:

Oh, absolutely fundamental the home environment is well. It's the foundation for a child's emotional well-being. Creating a home that feels safe, supportive nurturing that's incredibly important.

Stella:

And how can families actively do that? What are some practical things?

Matthew:

Well, open communication is key, Really encouraging your child to talk about their feelings and, crucially, listening without judgment, just creating that safe space to share.

Stella:

Yeah, that sounds vital.

Matthew:

Fostering positive relationships is another one Encouraging them to do activities they enjoy, helping them build good connections with friends and family members. And we can't forget the basics A healthy lifestyle.

Stella:

Right Diet, sleep exercise.

Matthew:

Exactly A balanced diet, getting enough sleep, regular physical activity. They all have a massive impact on mental health, just like physical health.

Stella:

Makes sense. Anything else families can focus on.

Matthew:

Being a good role model is powerful. Kids watch everything, so showing how you handle stress, how you cope with difficult emotions in healthy ways, that teaches them a lot.

Stella:

Leading by example, precisely.

Matthew:

And finally, just remembering that asking for help is OK. It's a sign of strength. If you're concerned, talking to your child's pediatrician or a mental health professional is the best step. They're there to help navigate this.

Stella:

So, pulling this all together, it's really clear that we can't separate mental health from physical health and kids. They're deeply intertwined.

Matthew:

Exactly right. And providing that support, that intervention when needed, alongside a safe and loving home, that's what makes the biggest difference.

Stella:

This has been incredibly insightful. I think the big takeaway really is that pediatricians are such key partners for parents in navigating their child's mental health.

Matthew:

Definitely. They're often the first, most trusted point of contact for families looking for guidance.

Stella:

And if you want to learn more about the services Omega Pediatrics offers and their approach to children's well-being, you can visit omegapediatricscom.

Matthew:

Yes, please do, and if you found this discussion helpful, maybe share it with other parents or caregivers. Spreading awareness about this is so important.

Stella:

Absolutely, and please subscribe to have More Babies or download our discussions so you don't miss future ones. We really appreciate you joining us.

Matthew:

We certainly do. We hope to have you back again.

Stella:

And here's something to think about, knowing how closely linked the mind and body are in children. What's one small change you could observe or maybe encourage in your child's daily routine that might positively influence their overall well-being? Something to consider.

Matthew:

Thank you again for listening and engaging with us on this important topic.

Stella:

Bye-bye for now.

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Michael Nwaneri, MD

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