ASK Child Psych

3 Pounds of Fat

In this first episode, Dr. K introduces the podcast and discusses the 3 pounds of fat that resides between our ears. In this, we also attempt to define and points out the difficulty in defining mental health and mental illness.

Wait, Who're You?

There are many different type of mental health provider that you may encounter. Which one is the right one for your needs? In this episode, Dr. K reviews some of the most common mental health providers to help you connect to the right provider at the first appointment. 

The Big Book

Dr. K discusses the DSM, it's history and current use in psychiatric practice. He also explains how he utilizes this text in supporting the care of youth/families that he takes care of. 

Location, Location, Location

Not only are there different types of Mental Health providers (See Episode 2, "Wait, Who're You?" but also occurs in different types of locations. In this episode, Dr. K discusses the main levels of care (from PCP and outpatient treatment to in-patient and residential care) that one may encounter along their mental health journey. 

Shh! It's a Secret!

During mental health treatment, a lot of really sensitive topics are often discussed. How do you know what information will be shared with parents/adults and when things are kept in the office? In this episode of ASK Child Psych, Dr. K discusses a very important aspect of mental health care, Confidentiality. You'll get to hear what confidentiality is, when it's maintained, and when it may be broken. Take a listen so it's no longer a secret!

More than Sad, Part 1 - What is Depression?

Depression is one of the most common mental health issues affecting kids and adolescents. In this episode of the ASK Child Psych Podcast, Dr. K discusses what depression is, how it differs from temporary sadness, and some ways to support a youth who may be struggling with depression. 
"More than Sad" will be a 3 part series with part 1 focusing on depression. Part 2 will focus on Suicide and Part 3 will focus on methods to treat depression. 

More Than Sad, Part 2 - Suicide

On this episode, Dr. K discusses one of the most terrifying aspects of mental health, Suicide. Suicide is currently the 2nd leading cause of death in 10-24 year olds and the #1 cause of death in 14- and 15-year-olds. In this episode, we talk about some myths and some ways to support youth who may be experiencing suicidal thinking. 
*Content warning -- we discuss suicide and safety in this episode. 

More than Sad, Part 3 - Getting to Better

The first two parts of the 3-part "More than Sad" series discussed depression and suicide. In this 3rd part, we will talk about ways to treat depression. Dr. K will discuss what we can be done before seeing a mental health provider to try to manage depression symptoms, a bit about behavioral therapy and lastly, a discussion on medication. He'll also briefly discuss the potential issues with anti-depressants and some of the things you should consider before going down the anti-depressant route.

Who Me? Worry?

Bobby McFerrin wrote the song "Don't Worry, Be Happy" but that's easier said that done. In this episode of ASK Child Psych, Dr. K discusses what anxiety is, how it may present, and some of the common types of anxiety disorders that he and other mental health providers often see. 

Don't Worry, Get Better

Managing anxiety is no easy feat. In this episode, Dr. K discusses techniques to manage anxiety with family and friend support, therapy and behavioral techniques, and medication options.