Although mental disorders are common among children, they often go undiagnosed. A recent study found that – globally – about 10% of children and adolescents have a mental health problembut the vast majority of them do not receive specialist help.

Stigma, limited access to mental health care, treatment costs and medication concerns are just some of the factors that prevent children from getting the proper care they need.

Whereas approximately 75% of mental disorders identified in adults originate in childhood and more specifically in adolescence, it is extremely important to understand that specialized support from a Pediatric Psychiatrist can be a real help for your child and your whole family.

How is a paediatric psychiatry session conducted?

Psychiatric assessment

In all therapeutic approaches, it starts with an assessment – an important first step in determining a therapeutic plan for each individual child, based on their needs.

During the first meeting, the doctor will observe the child’s behaviour (in younger children, the interaction between the doctor and the child is based on play). This will enable the specialist to make an initial clinical assessment, including an examination of the child’s mental state, taking into account the interaction between the child and the parents.

In order to understand the mental health status of a child or adolescent, a comprehensive psychiatric assessment is often necessary. This can take several hours or several visits and often includes the following:

• Overview of current issues, symptoms and concerns
• Family health history (physical and mental) ;
• Information about the child’s health, illness (physical and mental), treatment plans or medications;
• Information about child birth, growth and development;
• Information about the child’s school habits, friendships and close family relationships;
• Interview with parents or guardians;
• Laboratory tests such as blood tests, X-rays or special assessments.

How can you prepare your child for their first paediatric psychiatry session?

Children experience less anxiety when they know what to expect from their first visit to the doctor.

They may have certain concerns about seeing a doctor that you can prevent so that the appointment itself is not a stressor for your little one.

‼️ Remember that the discussion should be adapted to your child’s age, maturity and temperament.