Welcome to Pediatric Meltdown, the podcast dedicated to exploring the complexities and challenges of pediatric care. Today, host Dr. Lia Gaggino and guest speaker Dr. Marian Earls tackle the concepts of mental health competencies and integrated behavioral health. As pediatricians, it is crucial to have a multifaceted understanding of mental health and offer the necessary support to children in need. From debunking myths surrounding SSRIs to advocating for policy and payment support, Lia and Marian offer valuable insights into the integration of mental health into pediatric practice. By incorporating evidence-based therapies and working collaboratively with mental health specialists, pediatricians can effectively address mild to moderate mental health issues within their scope of practice. Pediatricians, with their long-standing relationships with families, have a unique opportunity to identify and address these issues early on. Together, we can break down the barriers and stigma surrounding mental health, ultimately improving outcomes and nurturing the emotional well-being of our future generation.        

[03:18 -19:09] Overcoming Barriers and Promoting Mental Health

• Helping pediatricians understand the tools they already have
• Recognizing activities that promote mental health, such as reading with children
• Understanding the role of psychiatrists in co-management
• Discussing the panic and misconceptions regarding mental health assessment

[19:10 - 25:21]  Collaboration and Advocacy for Improved Mental Health Services  

• Advocacy efforts by AAP at the national level to promote integrated mental health care
• Need for engaged Chapters to build relationships with Medicaid programs and private payers
• Recognition of the significant benefits of integrated care, including reduced stigma, improved access, and better outcomes
• Ability to expand capacity and reserve referrals for children with more complex needs through effective management and collaboration with schools and community mental health services

[25:22 - 33:29]  Overcoming Barriers and Promoting Mental Health

• Helping pediatricians understand the tools they already have
• Recognizing activities that promote mental health, such as reading with children
• Understanding the role of psychiatrists in co-management
• Discussing the panic and misconceptions regarding mental health assessment

[33:30 - 46:29] AAP Resources for Mental Health Support 

• Podcasts on psychopharm with experts discussing anxiety meds, SSRIs, and aggression
• Understanding and managing medications for children on psychotropic drugs
• Guidelines and resources for managing ADHD and depression
• AAP's endorsement of Glad PC for identifying and managing depression in kids

[46:30 - 51:19]  Closing segment Takeaway

Links to resources mentioned on the show

AAP Mental Health Initiatives:  https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/mental-health-initiatives/

AAP Mental Health Practice Readiness Inventory:  https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/PracticeReadinessInventory.pdf?_ga=2.52822312.1802788953.1685034173-313239514.1676996324

Hunter and Goodie Integrated Behavioral Health in Primary Care: