Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health (ACAMH)

In this special episode of Mind the Kids, “Tics: Education, Education, Education”, hosts Dr. Jane Gilmour, Honorary Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Child Development Programme Director at UCL, and Professor Umar Toseeb from the University of York, take a deep dive into Tourette's syndrome—what it is, how it manifests, and how it's often misunderstood.Inspired by the BAFTA award-winning film I, Swear, Jane and Umar discuss the difference between types of tics, what Tourette's looks like in real life versus in media portrayals, and the realities for children and young people living with the condition today.Their conversation spans everything from neurological and functional tics to the challenges of recognition, school experiences, and how we can all respond with greater empathy and understanding.Get a free CPD/CME certificate for listening to this podcast by registering for a FREE ACAMH Learn account at https://bit.ly/4fF4BBWVisit https://www.acamh.org Facebook and LinkedIn search / ACAMHInstagram https://www.instagram.com/assoc.camhBluesky https://bsky.app/profile/acamh.bsky.socialX https://x.com/acamh

This episode of 'Mind the Kids: Lessons from the ABCD data revolution' unpacks why “how we measure puberty” really matters for understanding adolescent mental health and development. Professor Adriene Beltz talks to Mark Tebbs about the huge US Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study, which is following nearly 12,000 young people over 10 years with regular brain scans and surveys, giving an unprecedented window into how early experiences shape later outcomes.​While investigating multisite pain and sex differences, her team stumbled on a problem: researchers using ABCD data were often relying on a convenient categorical puberty score (pre‑, early, mid‑, late, post‑puberty) that drops information and heavily weights the onset of menstruation, rather than using a richer continuous score based on all five pubertal development items. Their analyses show the continuous score is generally more reliable, better aligned with existing puberty research, and less distorted by big “jumps” around menarche, especially for girls.​The conversation becomes a wider call to action: if puberty timing and tempo can shape lifelong trajectories in mental health, pain, and social experiences, then getting the measurement wrong risks misleading conclusions and missed opportunities for prevention. Adriene urges researchers to be thoughtful and transparent about how they score puberty in large datasets, to report clearly what they used, and to remember that puberty is a normative but highly sensitive transition where context, culture, and support all matter just as much as hormones.  Read the paper 'Research Review: On the (mis)use of puberty data in the ABCD Study® – a systematic review, problem illustration, and path forward' at https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.70035 Get  a free CPD/CME certificate for listening to this podcast by registering for a FREE ACAMH Learn account at https://www.acamhlearn.orgVisit https://www.acamh.orgFacebook and LinkedIn search / ACAMH Instagram https://www.instagram.com/assoc.camhBluesky https://bsky.app/profile/acamh.bsky.socialX https://x.com/acamh

hThis powerful episode dives into how a mother's own childhood trauma can quietly shape the emotional lives of her children – and how that cycle can be broken. Drawing on a rare 12‑year study of around 300 mostly Black, highly disadvantaged families in the US Midwest, Dr Meeyoung Min unpacks how her team followed mothers and babies from birth through early adolescence to understand what really drives later mental health.​Far from blaming mothers, the episode situates these risks in a wider context of poverty, limited opportunity, and unresolved trauma, and leans into hope rather than inevitability. Dr Min makes a compelling case for pregnancy and the early postnatal period as a “golden window” for support – from practical help and non‑judgemental social networks to community and faith groups that wrap around both parent and child – showing that with the right support, intergenerational patterns of harm can be disrupted and futures can be changed.The conversation reveals two major pathways: first, mothers who experienced more childhood maltreatment tend to struggle more with their own mental health, making it harder to stay emotionally available, regulate feelings, and use calm, consistent parenting – all of which is linked to greater anxiety, low mood, and acting‑out behaviours in their 12‑year‑olds. Second, prenatal exposure to substances such as cocaine, alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana appears to alter developing brain systems involved in stress, independently increasing the risk of externalising behaviour.​You can read the main JCPP paper discussed in this episode, “Intergenerational transmission of maternal childhood maltreatment, prenatal substance exposure, and internalizing and externalizing symptoms in early adolescence at age 12” via https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.70030Get  a free CPD/CME certificate for listening to this podcast by registering for a FREE ACAMH Learn account at https://www.acamhlearn.orgVisit https://www.acamh.orgFacebook and LinkedIn search / ACAMH Instagram https://www.instagram.com/assoc.camhBluesky https://bsky.app/profile/acamh.bsky.socialX https://x.com/acamh

 What if a baby's wobbly reach for a spoon or a make-believe tea party could quietly change the way language unfolds? In this episode of Mind The Kids, “Building Blocks: How motor and social skills shape language learning, as captured by genes” host Mark Tebbs talks with Dr Beate St Pourcain and Dr Ellen Verhoeff from the Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics about what it really means to develop language in a developing body.Drawing on their JCPP study of over 6,000 children in the ALSPAC cohort, they follow a developmental cascade that starts with early gross motor milestones like sitting and crawling, moves through culturally shaped self-care and pretend-play skills like using a spoon or hosting a tea party, and then flows into vocabulary and grammar between 15 and 38 months. Along the way, they unpack how genetics and environment intertwine, why social interactions and playful routines act as gateways into language rather than just nice “add-ons,” and what this might mean for parents, carers, clinicians and educators who want to support communication in both autistic and non-autistic children. You can read the main JCPP paper discussed in this episode, “Developing language in a developing body: genetic associations of infant gross motor behaviour and self-care/symbolic actions with emerging language abilities” via https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.70021 Get a free CPD/CME certificate for listening to this podcast by registering for a FREE ACAMH Learn account at https://www.acamhlearn.org Visit https://www.acamh.org Facebook and LinkedIn search / ACAMH Instagram https://www.instagram.com/assoc.camh Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/acamh.bsky.social X https://x.com/acamh 

 Why do some children find learning a little harder, and could their genes hold part of the answer? In this episode of Mind the Kids, entitled ‘Genetic clues to classroom struggles', host Mark Tebbs talks with Dr. Marie-Pier Larose from the University of Turku about her recent JCPP paper. They delve into how children's genetic predispositions—especially those linked to attention and behaviour—can influence how they learn and thrive in school. Marie-Pier shares insights from a major international study exploring the connection between early attention difficulties, mental health, and academic achievement. The discussion highlights the power of early support, the role of teachers and parents, and why understanding these genetic clues can help children reach their full potential—both in the classroom and beyond. For more details read the JCPP paper ‘Associations between genetic predisposition to mental health problems and academic achievement: a developmental perspective using two population-based cohorts' Marie-Pier Larose, Isabel Schuurmans, Edward D. Barker, Liliana Garcia Mondragon, Henning Tiemeier, Irwin Waldman, Charlotte Cecil. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.70043 Get a free CPD/CME certificate for listening to this podcast by registering for a FREE ACAMH Learn account at https://www.acamhlearn.org Visit https://www.acamh.org Facebook and LinkedIn search / ACAMH Instagram https://www.instagram.com/assoc.camh Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/acamh.bsky.social X https://x.com/acamh 

Energized, driven, “on a high” – or at the edge of something more serious? This Mind the Kids episode, “Energized or at risk? Distinguishing subclinical hypomania in adolescents”, explores how to tell the difference between healthy teenage intensity and something more problematic. Host Mark Tebbs talks to Dr. Georgina Hosang about the topic of hypomania, as she draws on her expertise and research. The conversation unpacks what hypomania can look like at home and at school, how it overlaps with typical mood swings and ADHD, and other conditions, and which red flags suggest it's time to seek specialist help.​Listeners will hear practical guidance on what parents, carers, teachers, and young people themselves can watch for, how to talk about concerns without stigma, and why early recognition matters for safety, learning, and long‑term wellbeing. This episode is for anyone supporting adolescents who seem unusually “switched on”, wired, or risk‑taking – and who wants clear, compassionate advice on when to simply ride the wave, and when to seek assistance.For more details read the JCPP paper ‘Subclinical hypomania, psychiatric and neurodevelopmental diagnoses: phenotypic and aetiological overlap' by Georgina M. Hosang et al. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.70045Get a free CPD/CME certificate for listening to this podcast by registering for a FREE ACAMH Learn account at https://www.acamhlearn.org Visit https://www.acamh.org Facebook and LinkedIn search / ACAMH Instagram https://www.instagram.com/assoc.camh Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/acamh.bsky.social X https://x.com/acamh 

How can a child suddenly start speaking a language no one around them uses? This Mind the Kids episode, “When language surprises – unexpected bilingualism in autism” dives into the striking phenomenon of autistic children spontaneously acquiring and using a language that is absent from their home, school, and social world. Drawing on new research, host Mark Tebbs speaks to David Gagnon, and Dr. Alexia Ostrolenk, on this topic, and their JCPP paper. With minimally speaking autistic children, the discussion explains what unexpected bilingualism is, why it challenges traditional ideas about the role of social interaction in language learning, and how it can reveal an alternative pathway into language. Listeners will hear how parents first notice these surprising language skills, why they may be both confusing and hopeful, and what this means for supporting communication and designing interventions. The episode offers clear take home messages for families, educators, and clinicians on recognising hidden abilities, following a child's interests (from letters and numbers to YouTube subtitles), and rethinking “plateau” periods as times of invisible but important development. For more details read the JCPP paper ‘Early manifestations of unexpected bilingualism in minimally verbal autism' David Gagnon, Alexia Ostrolenk, Laurent Mottron https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.70032 Get a free CPD/CME certificate for listening to this podcast by registering for a FREE ACAMH Learn account at https://acamhlearn.org/Home

 How can you tell when teen irritability is ‘just a phase' and when it is a sign that something more serious is going on? In this episode of Mind the Kids, titled ‘Irritability in Teens More Than a Phase' host Mark Tebbs talks with Dr Jamilah Silver, Assistant Professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, whose work focuses on irritability, emotion regulation, and early emerging risk for psychopathology. Together they explore why adolescence is a ‘perfect storm' for irritability, how it shows up in daily life at home and at school, and when persistent anger, conflict, and moodiness start to impair sleep, friendships, and learning. Jamilah shares findings from a large multinational study of adolescents across nine countries, revealing how common chronic irritability is worldwide and how it links to bullying, depression, anxiety, and lower life satisfaction. The conversation also unpacks gender differences, classroom red flags for teachers, and why clinicians are beginning to treat irritability as a transdiagnostic “front door” signal that deserves earlier screening and support. Whether you are a parent, educator, or clinician, this episode offers practical ways to spot when irritability has tipped from typical teen behaviour into something that may need specialist help. For more details read the CAMH paper “A large multinational study of irritability in adolescents” Jamilah Silver, Ellen Leibenluft, Wan-Ling Tseng, Daniel N. Klein, Pablo Vidal-Ribas, Reut Naim, Praveetha Patalay, Eoin McElroy, Argyris Stringaris https://doi.org/10.1111/camh.70008  Get a free CPD/CME certificate for listening to this podcast when you register a FREE ACAMH Learn account at https://acamhlearn.org/Home

This episode of “Mind the Kids” offers a deeply nuanced discussion on cannabis use and abuse within family contexts and among adolescents. Hosted by Dr. Jane Gilmour and Professor Umar Toseeb, it features expert guests Professor Shelby Steuart and Victoria Bethel, who unpack the complexities of medical versus recreational cannabis, the evolving legal landscape in the US, and associated risks—especially for young people. The conversation explores how legalization affects availability and accidental exposures, the potency of cannabis products, and the challenges of regulation and safety. Listeners hear about the social and environmental factors influencing adolescent behavior, the balance of risks and potential benefits, and practical insights into harm reduction. Importantly, the episode emphasizes the need for data-led, non-judgmental approaches to understanding and responding to cannabis use among youth in a changing policy environment. It provides valuable takeaways for academics, clinicians, parents, and policymakers interested in child and adolescent mental health within the context of evolving cannabis laws. More informationCannabis and pediatric cannabis exposure – evidence from America's Poison CentersShelby R. Steuart, Victoria Bethel, W. David Bradford https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.70058 

This episode ‘Depression Symptoms - Should Fatigue be in the Major League?' extends well beyond clinical perspectives to offer a vivid, human portrayal of what fatigue truly means for young people experiencing depression. By the end of the episode, listeners gain a clear understanding of why fatigue is significant, the scientific revelations about its impact, and how young people themselves wish for their voices and struggles to be acknowledged—inviting reflection, debate, and a renewed commitment to innovation in youth mental health care. Dr Nina Higson-Sweeney joins Dr. Jane Gilmour and Professor Umar Toseeb in an open, insightful discussion that blends lived experience with the latest research. The conversation encourages listeners to look beyond clichés—emphasising that fatigue is not simply ‘being tired' but a profound, subjective exhaustion that rest does not alleviate, and which profoundly affects motivation, self-concept, and daily activities. Personal accounts reveal fatigue as both a physical and mental force—sometimes striking without warning, often unseen by others, yet disruptive to education, friendships, and self-esteem. Listeners learn how this ‘all-encompassing' symptom can generate feelings of guilt and social isolation, exacerbated by misunderstandings from peers and even healthcare professionals. The episode adeptly explores the blurred distinctions between fatigue, tiredness, and executive function challenges such as procrastination, considering how depression complicates these concepts. The discussion further examines how current therapies address fatigue—whether they focus on general depression or also reduce fatigue as a distinct symptom. Nina's research offers promising insights: whether through psychoeducation, cognitive behavioural therapy, or psychoanalytic methods, treating depression in adolescence can alleviate fatigue; however, more nuanced, targeted interventions may yield even better outcomes. 

 In this episode of Mind the Kids, host Dr. Clara Faria sits down with Dr. Alice Wickersham, Zoe Frith, and Professor Johnny Downs from the CAMHS Digital Lab at King's College London to explore how digital innovation is transforming child and adolescent mental health services. The conversation delves into their groundbreaking work bridging the gap between research and real-world practice, addressing the critical challenge of implementing digital mental health technologies in clinical settings.​ The team discusses their multi-faceted approach to digital mental health innovation, including developing user-centered digital therapies and assessment tools, creating apps like My Journey and My Health that engage young people at the point of referral, and pioneering electronic health record linkage between CAMHS and education systems. They share insights on using natural language processing to extract meaningful clinical information from patient notes, reducing administrative burden through ambient voice technology for clinical assessments, and engaging schools and young people through creative partnerships like their collaboration with Elstree Screen Arts Academy.​ This episode offers a comprehensive look at how digital technologies can address waiting lists, improve research participation, and provide better outcomes for young people facing mental health challenges. Whether you're a clinician, researcher, policymaker, or anyone interested in the future of child mental health services, you'll gain valuable insights into the practical challenges and exciting possibilities of digital mental health innovation.​ For details on CAMHS Digital Lab visit https://www.camhsdlab.co.uk/ 

 This Mind the Kids episode, ‘Therapy and Autism: Actions for Adaptations', asks what does truly neurodiversity affirming therapy look like for autistic young people with co occurring mental health difficulties?  Dr Jane Gilmour and Professor Umar Toseeb are joined by clinician researcher Professor Francisco Musich to step inside the therapy room and examine how it actually feels for autistic children and adolescents with co occurring conditions to navigate CAMHS support. Across the conversation, they move beyond theory and guidelines to the lived details that make or break engagement: the speed and style of language, the sensory impact of the clinic environment, and how far therapists are willing to adapt around special interests, alternative media and different processing speeds.  Along the way, they weigh personal clinical instincts against a still emerging evidence base, asking which accommodations genuinely improve outcomes and which might be comforting but ineffective, and what this means for designing neurodiversity affirming, research informed care.  Professor Francisco Musich will be delving into this topic more in February 2026 at the ACAMH webinar - Autism and Co-occurring Conditions: Adapting Psychological Therapies https://www.acamh.org/event/autism-cooccurring-conditions/  Get a free CPD/CME certificate for listening to this podcast by registering for a FREE ACAMH Learn account at www.acamhlearn.org 

What actually is a ‘meltdown', and when do big feelings in kids become a problem that families and schools can't ignore? In this episode of Mind the Kids, hosts Dr. Jane Gilmour and Professor Umar Toseeb sit down with Associate Professor Erin Gonzalez from the University of Washington School of Medicine, to unpack meltdowns in real-life, everyday language rather than just research jargon. Drawing on her clinical work with families in crisis, Erin explores what happens in a child's brain and body during a meltdown, why these episodes are so common in neurodivergent children, and how screens, sleep, and anxiety can create a ‘perfect storm' for explosive behaviour. She offers practical, evidence-informed strategies for parents and teachers, including how to respond in the moment, why “doing less” can sometimes de-escalate faster, and how to use meltdowns as opportunities to build emotional literacy instead of shame. The conversation also previews Erin's upcoming ACAMH webinar, ‘Mastering Meltdowns: Managing Big Feelings in Kids', and highlights why emotional competence should be treated as just as fundamental as learning to read. This episode is essential listening for parents, carers, educators, and clinicians supporting children whose emotions sometimes feel bigger than they are. Don't miss Associate Professor Erin Gonzalez deliver the ‘Mastering Meltdowns: Managing Big Feelings in Kids' from just £5, details at https://www.acamh.org/event/no-more-meltdowns/ 

‘Mental Health Needs in Care, but Missed Out' takes listeners inside the realities and challenges faced by children in the UK care system. This episode brings real human stories and statistics together, highlighting that care experiences are diverse and often compounded by instability, repeated moves, and separation from familiar environments.  The team's guest, Dr. Eva Sprecher, unpacks not only the scale of the issue but also the pitfalls of current screening tools—revealing how many children's trauma-related mental health needs go undetected. The episode ultimately advocates for holistic, individualised approaches, emphasizing that recovery and positive trajectories are possible when we truly see and support the whole child, rather than focusing solely on their status in the care system.  Hosts Dr. Jane Gilmour and Professor Umar Toseeb not only discuss powerful research but also weave in personal anecdotes, legal definitions, and hard-hitting societal themes—from the nuances of terminology like “in care” versus “looked after children,” to the impact of pivotal legislation such as the 1989 Children's Act. The conversation spotlights stark realities: young people enter care due to layered adversities—neglect, abuse, poverty, parental mental health difficulties, and more—which frequently lead to complex emotional and behavioural needs. Listeners will leave with real takeaways, fresh understanding, and hope that with the right awareness and policy change, outcomes for these vulnerable young people can be transformed. More information Read the Open Access JCPP Advances paper 'Sufficiency of current practice: How well does the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire detect clinically elevated PTSD, anxiety, and depression symptoms in children in care?' Eva Sprecher, KH Shelton, Lisa Holmes, Bethan Carter, Charlotte Robinson, Maryam Javed, John Macleod, Jeongeun Park, Julie Selwyn, Rachel Hiller

In this episode ‘Special Educational Needs to Label or Not to Label? That is the question' Dr Jane Gilmore and Professor Umar Toseeb address the nuanced and complex issue of diagnostic labels within education. Together, they delve into whether the use of diagnostic labels such as ADHD, autism, and dyslexia should continue or if it is time to reconsider their role. The discussion explores the challenges and benefits of these terms, as well as the deeper philosophical questions surrounding how such classifications shape understanding, support mechanisms, and young people's identities. They examines the current framework used: communication and interaction, cognition and learning, social, emotional and mental health difficulties, and sensory and physical needs. It considers the impact these labels have on children's educational provision and inclusion, weighing them against a potential shift towards a needs-led system that might allow for a more personalised and human-centred approach. Drawing from both professional experience and current research, the conversation reflects on the delicate balance between the necessity of shared terminology for effective communication and the risk that such labels may oversimplify complex individual needs or contribute to stigma. This episode invites listeners to reflect on how best to support neurodiverse young people within education, ensuring their unique strengths and challenges are both recognised and respected without losing sight of their individuality. It offers fresh perspectives for academics, practitioners, families, and educators alike on the practice of diagnosis, its effects on young people, and the possibilities for creating a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.

In this episode ‘Does minor aggression have a major impact?' we confront a sensitive but crucial area: the effects of intimate partner violence and aggression on children. Dr. Jane Gilmour and Professor Umar Toseeb are joined by Dr. Hedwig Eisenbarth from Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand, the lead author of the paper The Impact of Less Severe Intimate Partner Aggression on Child Conduct Problems, published in JCPP Advances. This paper focuses on lower levels of violence, so they use phrases like ‘minor' or ‘less severe'. This phraseology, of course, does not imply that they are considered acceptable.  They explore how attachment theory, social learning, and even genetic factors may intersect with a child's experience of aggression in the home. The discussion covers the importance of the home environment, the need for intervention, and the complex challenge of studying these behaviours across different cultures. More information Read the Open Access paper from JCPP Advances ‘The impact of less severe intimate partner aggression on child conduct problems' Hedwig Eisenbarth, Karina Clavijo Saldias, Paul E. Jose, Johannes A. Karl, Karen E. Waldie https://doi.org/10.1002/jcv2.70024

Welcome to "Mind the Kids," where stories, science, and lived experience collide to shed light on the mysteries of child development. What if the answer to why some children struggle with attention or language isn't just written in their DNA, but also shaped by the world their parents create? In this episode, “Neurotypes, Genotypes and Phenotypes,” our hosts Professor Umar Toseeb and Dr. Jane Gilmour invite Dr. Laura Hegemann to talk about her JCPP paper ‘Direct and indirect genetic effects on early neurodevelopmental traits' and the wider implications of the topic. Laura unravels why understanding genetic influences isn't about fate or fatalism; it's a nuanced story of possibility, risk, and hope. Her research offers powerful new insights: the mix of direct genetic effects and subtle environmental influences, and why “knowledge is power” for clinicians and parents trying to support neurodiverse children. You'll hear candid reflections on why communicating these findings is fraught with risks and responsibilities—and stories of families who find both challenge and strength in their inherited traits. As you listen, expect real talk: about how early intervention makes a difference, why neurodevelopmental traits can be both a challenge and a gift, and how science can help us support—not stigmatise—those on different developmental paths.  This isn't just another academic debate; it's a conversation about how research shapes practice and lives. So settle in for a journey through dilemmas, discoveries, and transformative moments in child behavioural genetics. The story starts here. More information: From the JCPP paper ‘Direct and indirect genetic effects on early neurodevelopmental traits' Laura Hegemann, Espen Eilertsen, Johanne Hagen Pettersen, Elizabeth C. Corfield, Rosa Cheesman, Leonard Frach, Ludvig Daae Bjørndal, Helga Ask, Beate St Pourcain, Alexandra Havdahl, Laurie J. Hannigan https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.14122

Welcome to this episode of Mind the Kids, the podcast from the Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health. In an episode titled 'Income(ing): Poverty and Resilience' Dr. Jane Gilmour and Professor Umar Toseeb are joined by Dr. Divyangana Rakesh from King's College London, to discuss her groundbreaking research on cognitive resilience among children growing up in poverty. The discussion centers on the paper 'Beyond the Income Achievement Gap: The Role of Individual, Family, and Environmental Factors in Cognitive Resilience Among Low-Income Youth' published in JCPP Advances. You can access the full article via DOI: 10.1002/jcv2.12297. Dr. Rakesh shares insights into how some children manage to thrive cognitively despite economic hardship. As she explains, “Although growing up in poverty carries many risks, some children defy the odds and demonstrate positive cognitive outcomes. Identifying factors that promote such resilience in disadvantaged contexts is essential for informing interventions and policies.” She highlights the crucial role of family, community, and individual factors that can foster resilience and improve educational outcomes. Join us as we explore the complex interplay of these factors and what they mean for child mental health and societal action. This episode is essential listening for anyone invested in understanding and supporting young people's development in disadvantaged contexts. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share with your networks.

Does it really matter which type of therapy you choose? In this Mind the Kids episode, hosts Dr. Jane Gilmour and Prof. Umar Toseeb sit down with Professor Ian Goodyer from the University of Cambridge to unpack one of the most provocative findings in youth mental health research: different types of psychotherapy for adolescent depression work equally well—but not for the reasons we thought. Drawing from the landmark IMPACT trial (the largest UK study of its kind with 465 participants), Professor Goodyer reveals surprising insights that challenge decades of therapeutic orthodoxy. Using cutting-edge network analysis, his team discovered that the key drivers of recovery aren't what therapists predicted—they're fatigue and insomnia, not the psychological symptoms clinicians typically focus on. What You'll Learn The Common Factors Debate: Why CBT, psychoanalytic therapy, and brief psychosocial intervention showed no significant differences in outcomes The Speed of Recovery: Why most young people improved faster than any therapy manual predicted (often in just 6-12 sessions instead of 20-30) Network Science Meets Mental Health: How symptoms influence each other over time—and why this changes everything about diagnosis and treatment The Sleep Connection: Why addressing fatigue and insomnia might be more crucial than we realized for adolescent depression The Role of Time: Why recovery continues for 12 months after therapy ends, with remarkably low relapse rates Why This Matters This isn't just an academic debate. These findings have profound implications for: Clinicians: Rethinking assessment priorities and treatment planning Trainees: Understanding what really drives therapeutic change Researchers: Opening new avenues for investigating mental health interventions Policy makers: Allocating resources more effectively in child and adolescent mental health services Perfect for: Clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists, researchers, students, and anyone interested in what really works in mental health treatment—and why. From the JCPP paper ‘Dynamics of depression symptoms in adolescents during three types of psychotherapy and post-treatment follow-up' Madison Aitken, Sharon A.S. Neufeld, Clement Ma, IMPACT Consortium, Ian M. Goodyer https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.14175

Welcome to Mind the Kids, the podcast from the Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health.  Today's episode takes us into the complex world of parenting programmes—the backbone of many early interventions for children with disruptive behaviour problems. This episode is entitles 'More Than Money: Nudging Parents, Breaking Barriers, Transforming Futures'. Host Mark Tebbs speaks with Dr. Nathan Hodson, child and adolescent psychiatrist and researcher at the University of Warwick, whose work explores how financial incentives might help bring more parents into these transformative programmes. Drawing on behavioural economics and evidence from a systematic review and meta-analysis, Nathan and Mark delve into one of the field's most pressing challenges: engagement.  As they discuss, the question isn't whether parenting support works—the evidence is clear that it does—but how to ensure families facing the toughest circumstances can access and stay with it. Could small, well-targeted incentives help remove barriers such as transport, childcare, or lost work time? And what does it mean for equity, motivation, and policy design? This episode is as much about compassion as it is about data. It's a conversation that asks us to see every parent not as “hard to reach,” but as balancing complex lives where practical help can make all the difference. Whether you're a policymaker, practitioner, or researcher, you'll find insight here into how behavioural nudges and empathy might work hand in hand to build fairer, more effective systems of support. Mind the Kids brings research to life—because improving children's mental health starts with understanding the stories behind the studies.​ This episode relates to ACAMH's Child and Adolescent Mental Health Journal paper 'Review: Systematic review and meta-analysis – financial incentives increase engagement with parenting programs for disruptive behavior problems' Nathan Hodson, Madiha Majid, Richard James, Eileen K. Graham, Daniel K. Mroczek, Rinad S. Beidas https://doi.org/10.1111/camh.12746

What began on a cold November night with a simple cup of hot chocolate and some open ears grew into a vibrant, inclusive space where young people, often misunderstood by schools and society, found a place to be themselves. In this episode of Mind the Kids, ‘Home fae Home: Hot Chocolate Helping Trauma' we step into the heart of a community transformed by compassion, creativity, and co-design.  Join host Mark Tebbs as he meets the passionate team on a remarkable project; Charis Robertson, Anne McKechnie, Gary Kennedy, and Lindsey McIntosh—experts from diverse backgrounds including community development, clinical psychology, architecture, and design. Hear how the Hot Chocolate Trust in Dundee — a grassroots organisation that for over 25 years has offered refuge and belonging to young people often on the margins.  Through a remarkable collaboration between youth workers, trauma-informed psychologists, architects, and designers, this episode explores an inspiring journey of transforming a historic church building into a sanctuary designed by the young people themselves. Using innovative and playful methods, the team engaged these youths in the co-creation process, listening deeply to their stories, needs, and visions to shape a space that truly feels like their own. Hear the stories of small moments that sparked big change — from impromptu pancake parties to spray paint workshops — and discover how trauma-informed practice goes beyond therapy to embrace community, trust, and empowerment. This is about creating safe spaces that honour identity, choice, and belonging, where healing happens naturally through connection and creativity. Whether you're a youth worker, mental health professional, designer, or simply someone who believes in the power of community, this episode offers a deeply human perspective on how to listen, engage, and build environments that help young people not just survive, but thrive. Read the paper in the CAMH journal 'Home Fae Home: A case study in co-designing trauma-informed community spaces with young people in Dundee, Scotland' Charis Robertson, Gary Kennedy, Linsey McIntosh, Anne McKechnie https://doi.org/10.1111/camh.12765

Picture a young person arriving at their first mental health appointment, weighed down not only by their difficulties but also by the puzzle of navigating referrals, assessments, and uncertainty. Beneath the clinical process is a story shaped by hope, resilience, and the powerful impact of relationships and evidence in shaping outcomes. From stories of children and families seeking answers to frontline professionals looking for better ways to help, this episode, ‘Diagnosis with Heart: The Promise and Challenges of SDA Tools' journey's beyond statistics—asking how new tools can foster partnership, streamline care, and preserve the personal moments that make a real difference. Welcome to the Mind the Kids podcast series. In this episode host Mark Tebbs invites listeners to step into the world of assessment through both the lens of rigorous research and lived experience. Mark is joined by Dr. Salah Basheer and Dr. Sue Fen Tan, whose review article in the Child and Adolescent Mental Health journal ‘The acceptability and effectiveness of standardised diagnostic assessment approaches in children and young people's mental health services – an updated systematic review'  asks: can SDAs provide clarity and fairness for families, protect against missed diagnoses, and support clinicians facing daunting demand and stretched resources? Mark and his guests reflect on what's needed to turn hope into lasting change: robust research, authentic collaboration, and the courage to keep listening to every child's story. As Salah reflects, “We are not talking about these tools replacing clinical practice—we're asking whether, used as an add-on, they can help clinicians provide the right care at the right time.” Sue Fen Tan, meanwhile, reminds us that, “A tool is only as good as its real-world application. If clinicians and families don't find it user-friendly and meaningful, it won't make a difference. Empathy and the human touch must remain at the heart of clinical care.” Whether a clinician, policymaker, or someone passionate about mental health, listeners leave with new questions, practical insights, and the reminder that the path to better outcomes is built as much on compassion as on evidence. If the episode moves you, please share or review to help spread fresh perspectives in child and adolescent mental health.

Imagine a child stepping into their first classroom, carrying with them a world shaped by family stress, poverty, or developmental challenges. What happens next is more than a story of struggle—it's a story of hope, resilience, and the powerful impact of everyday relationships. Welcome to the Mind The Kids podcast series. Today's episode, ‘Navigating Early Risk How Kindergarten Shapes Childhood Outcomes', explores how early childhood risks such as poverty, family stress, and developmental delays influence children's outcomes in school, and how positive experiences in kindergarten can protect children as they grow older. Your host Mark Tebbs —a lifelong advocate for mental health and currently Chief Executive of a leading charity focused on community wellbeing. In this episode Mark is joined by Dr. Katharina Haag, senior researcher at the Norwegian Institute for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, to discuss her recent paper published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry (JCPP), “Navigating Early Risk: Differential Outcomes in Middle Childhood and the Compensatory Role of Kindergarten Experiences”. https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jcpp.14158 As Dr. Haag explains: “We know that close relationships with teachers, and social play in kindergarten, were linked to better outcomes across the board, regardless of the child's risk profile.” Mark and Katharina reflect on what Norway's universal, high-quality kindergarten system means for other countries grappling with unequal access and persistent childhood inequalities. Mark asks the questions every parent and policymaker has wondered: Can early education truly level the playing field? What does it take to translate hope into lasting change? And, most importantly, what practical lessons can be applied wherever children grow up? Whether a parent, teacher, or mental health professional, listeners leave with a sense of possibility—and a call to remember that small moments of support can change the trajectory of a child's life. If you enjoy what you hear, please leave a review or share the episode to help spread evidence-based insights in child and adolescent mental health.

This episode of 'Mind the Kids - When Sleep & Anxiety Collide' is hosted by Mark Tebbs, who is joined by Liga Eihentale, an early career research scientist at Florida International University, whose work focuses on anxiety, memory, and sleep in peri-adolescence. The conversation centres around Liga's recent paper titled 'Anxiety severity in peri-adolescents is associated with greater generalization of negative memories following a period of sleep relative to wake" published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry (DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.70005). The episode explores how sleep impacts emotional memory consolidation in anxious youth during this sensitive developmental period. Liga highlights key findings, explaining that “sleep plays an active role in shaping how young people perceive and generalize negative experiences, especially in those with higher anxiety.” She further notes, “higher anxiety severity in youth is associated with greater negative memory generalization after sleep, which could help us understand the mechanisms behind anxiety disorders.” Listeners will gain valuable insights into the interplay between anxiety, sleep, and memory, and what these findings mean for potential intervention strategies targeting young people at risk of anxiety disorders. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with those interested in the future of mental health interventions.

Welcome to Mind The Kids, hosted by Mark Tebbs. In this episode, Mark sits down with Dr. Charlotte Viktorsson, a behavioural genetics researcher at Uppsala University, to explore the genetic and environmental influences on infant sleep and crying. Drawing on findings from a major study involving nearly 1,000 sets of Swedish twins, they discuss how much of a baby's crying is down to genetics and why sleep quality often depends on home routines and environment. If you're a parent in the thick of sleepless nights or frequent tears, this episode offers both reassurance and fresh insight. Dr. Viktorsson explains why some babies simply cry more than others—even in the best of circumstances—and shares practical advice for supporting your child's wellbeing in those challenging early months. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that brings clarity and comfort to anyone caring for young children. Based on the findings of ‘Genetic and environmental influences on sleep quality, ability to settle, and crying duration in 2- and 5-month-old infants: A longitudinal twin study' Charlotte Viktorsson, Ashraf Yahia, Mark J. Taylor, Angelica Ronald, Kristiina Tammimies, Terje Falck-Ytter. https://doi.org/10.1002/jcv2.70023

In this episode of Mind The Kids, host Mark Tebbs speaks with Dr. Lucy Tully and Dr. Simon Rice about the development and impact of "Family Man," an innovative, online, father-inclusive parenting program designed to reduce child conduct problems. Findings can be found in ACAMH's  Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry – JCPP - ‘An online, father-inclusive parenting intervention for reducing child conduct problems: a randomised controlled trial of family man' https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.14068 Dr. Tully, a senior lecturer and clinical researcher, shares her passion for early intervention in child mental health and her commitment to making evidence-based parenting support accessible. She highlights a key gap in the field: most parenting programs are designed for and tested with mothers, leaving fathers underrepresented and under-engaged. The conversation explores the barriers fathers face in accessing traditional parenting programs—such as cost, work commitments, lack of awareness, and persistent gender stereotypes—and how Family Man was purpose-built to address these issues. Developed in partnership with the Movember Institute, Family Man is a brief, self-directed, animated program that uses humor and relatable scenarios to engage fathers (and mothers) in learning effective strategies for managing children's challenging behaviors. A randomized controlled trial found that parents who completed Family Man reported significant improvements in their child's conduct, parenting practices, and family wellbeing—benefits that were sustained over time and equally experienced by both mothers and fathers. The program's online, accessible format and father-focused branding were key to its success. Dr. Rice emphasizes the importance of policy changes to support father involvement, such as better paternity leave and organizational practices that actively engage dads. Both guests call for ongoing research, longer-term follow-up, and a cultural shift to make father engagement "core business" in child mental health. Listeners are encouraged to try Family Man for free, regardless of whether they have concerns about their child's behavior, and to share the resource widely. This episode is essential for parents, practitioners, and anyone interested in advancing inclusive, accessible, and effective support for families.

In this episode of Mind the Kids, ‘Rewilding Childhood: Why Nature Matters in Mental Health' host Mark Tebbs sits down with Dr. Nicole Harris, educational psychologist and lead author of a major systematic review on nature connectedness in children and young people. Together, they explore why fostering a felt relationship with nature—beyond simply spending time outdoors—can be transformative for learning, behaviour, and wellbeing. Dr. Harris explains that nature connectedness is about developing a meaningful, emotional bond with the natural world—a connection that supports not only cognitive skills like attention, but also social skills and self-regulation. Drawing on theories such as attention restoration, stress reduction, and the emerging polyvagal theory, the conversation unpacks how nature can help calm the nervous system, making children more ready to learn and engage. The discussion highlights practical, low-cost ways schools and communities can nurture nature connectedness, from art projects and gardening to simply lying in the grass and noticing the world. Importantly, Dr. Harris emphasizes that these activities need not require wild landscapes; even small, local green spaces can make a difference. The episode also addresses the real-world barriers schools face—curriculum pressures, time constraints, and inequitable access to green space—arguing for a systems approach and policy changes to ensure all children benefit. Dr. Harris notes that children in more deprived areas have less access to nature, making it even more vital to embed nature connectedness into the curriculum for equity and long-term planetary health. Listeners will learn about the links between nature connectedness and pro-environmental behaviours, the complex relationship with eco-anxiety, and the potential for nature-based activities to support children with special educational needs. The conversation ends with a call to see ourselves as part of nature, not separate from it, and to recognize that reconnecting with the natural world is essential for both personal and planetary wellbeing. Based on the findings of ‘How can nature connectedness and behaviours for learning be deliberately developed in children, adolescents and young adults? A systematic literature review' Nicole M. Harris, Brettany Hartwell, Louisa Thomas, Marcus Grace https://doi.org/10.1111/camh.12774.  This paper formed part of the CAMH journal Special Issue ‘Physical Environmental Influences on the Psychosocial Outcomes of Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults', edited by Keri Ka-Yee Wong, Efstathios Papachristou, Marta Francesconi, and Tycho J. Dekkers. https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/toc/14753588/2025/30/2

In this episode of Mind The Kids, host Mark Tebbs welcomes Professor Kapil Sayal from the University of Nottingham, to explore the landmark STADIA trial, which was published in ACAMH's Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry (JCPP) https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.14090.  Together, they unravel how standardized diagnostic assessments, like the DAWBA, might shape the journey for children and young people referred to CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services). Kapil shares his dual perspective as both a professor and an NHS consultant, explaining how the STADIA trial spanned eight NHS sites across England and deeply involved young people and parents with lived experience. The heart of their conversation is the real-world impact of using structured assessment tools in mental health referrals—do they improve diagnosis, access, or outcomes? Listeners will learn how tools like DAWBA could transform clinical decision-making, listen to find what the study found. Families appreciated the validation and feedback these assessments provided, often using their reports to communicate with schools and GPs. The episode highlights the ongoing challenges in CAMHS—rising demand, long waits, and the need for earlier, more effective support. Mark and Kapil reflect on how research like STADIA can inform future policy, service design, and digital innovation, emphasizing the importance of listening to lived experience. The episode closes with a call for continued research and collaboration to ensure every young person gets the support they need, when they need it. Perfect for parents, clinicians, and anyone interested in the future of youth mental health care.

Join host Mark Tebbs as he welcomes Dr. Silvia Alemany, a leading researcher in psychiatry and environmental health, for a compelling conversation about the hidden ways our surroundings shape children's minds.  In this Mind the Kids episode, ‘Is Air Pollution Harming Our Children's Minds?' listeners are taken on a journey through the latest research from Catalonia, Spain, where Dr. Alemany and her team explored how air pollution and the presence of green spaces around schools influence children's emotional and behavioural well-being. This is evidence in the CAMH journal paper (and part of the CAMH Special Issue) ‘Associations between air pollution and surrounding greenness with internalizing and externalizing behaviors among schoolchildren' Paper - https://doi.org/10.1111/camh.12772 CAMH Special Issue - https://doi.org/10.1111/camh.12720 Listeners will hear about the broader context of this research, including the global shift in focus from adult respiratory and cardiovascular health to the developing brains of children. Dr. Alemany shares the inspiration behind her work, the challenges of measuring environmental exposures, and the importance of considering both direct and indirect effects of greenness—whether through cleaner air, opportunities for physical activity, or simply the calming presence of nature. The conversation also touches on the practical implications for urban planning and public health. Dr. Alemany emphasizes that while the effects observed are small, their significance lies in the widespread exposure of children to these environmental factors. She advocates for thoughtful city design, increased green spaces, and policies that reduce traffic near schools, all while ensuring that such changes do not exacerbate social inequalities. For parents, the message is both reassuring and empowering: while environmental factors are just one piece of the puzzle in child mental health, small changes—like choosing routes to school with more greenery or supporting local green initiatives—can make a difference. Dr. Alemany also highlights the need for continued research, especially into how genetics and socioeconomic status may influence vulnerability to environmental risks.

In this episode of Mind The Kids, our host for this series is Mark Tebbs who welcomes Isabel Aks and Professor William Pelham from the University of California, San Diego, for an insightful conversation on “Monitoring versus Knowing: Rethinking the Parent-Child Dynamics.” Drawing on their recent research published in JCPP Advances (https://doi.org/10.1002/jcv2.70008), the trio explores what parental monitoring really means today—and why it's much more than just (as Mark's son says) “another name for spying.” Isabel explains how parental monitoring is often misunderstood as snooping, when in reality it's about the everyday ways parents stay connected to their children's lives, from casual check-ins to knowing their friends and routines. William, a clinical child psychologist, highlights the delicate balance between keeping kids safe and respecting their growing independence—especially in the digital age, where technology has transformed how parents and teens interact.  Together, they discuss how trust is the foundation of effective monitoring, and how open communication—not just gathering information—builds stronger parent-child relationships. The conversation also unpacks the evolution of research in this area, shifting focus from simply what parents know to what they actually do to foster connection and care.  With practical advice and real-world examples, this episode is essential listening for parents, clinicians, and anyone interested in the changing landscape of family life. Tune in to discover why intentional, adaptable, and caring approaches to monitoring can help families thrive, even as the world—and childhood—rapidly change. 

 Join ACAMH Young Person Ambassador Clara Faria as she speaks with Associate Professor Thomas Gargot, a leading expert in technology-driven mental health solutions for children and young people with neurodevelopmental conditions. Professor Gargot, winner of the 2024 ACAMH Digital Innovation Award for Best Digital Intervention, delves into his pioneering research on using electronic tablets and robotics to support children with writing difficulties, such as dysgraphia, and explores the crucial connections between handwriting, learning, and cognitive development.  This episode unpacks innovative digital interventions—including rehabilitative robotic companions and scalable handwriting assessment apps—collaborative efforts between academia and startups, and the challenges and opportunities of implementing tech-based re-education tools in real-world settings. Discover how modern technology is transforming support for neurodevelopmental disorders like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, and what the future holds for evidence-based, accessible interventions.  Whether you're a clinician, educator, parent, or researcher, this conversation offers invaluable insights into how digital innovation is shaping the future of care for children facing neurodevelopmental challenges. 

In this Mind The Kids podcast junior doctor Clara Faria brings listeners into the heart of child and adolescent mental health care. In this episode, Clara welcomes Dr. Robyn McCarron, consultant psychiatrist at Cambridge's Darwin Centre, for a candid conversation about the realities and challenges of inpatient care for young people. Trigger warning: Sensitive topics such as restrictive practices, eating disorders, and trauma are discussed. Listener discretion is advised. Robyn shares her journey revealing how her experiences shaped her belief that traditional models often fall short for the most complex and vulnerable patients. She describes the inpatient ward as a place where young people arrive carrying not just medical diagnoses, but also deep histories of trauma, developmental struggles, and social adversity. Robyn's approach is rooted in values—respect, safety, and discovery—always striving to minimize harm and empower young people to participate in their own care. The episode explores the delicate balance between necessary interventions, like feeding under restraint for life-threatening eating disorders, and the risk of causing further trauma. Clara and Robyn also discuss the importance of supporting young people to regain independence and rebuild their lives outside the hospital, breaking cycles of readmission. Robyn's reflections are honest and inspiring, highlighting the privilege and challenge of helping young people navigate some of their darkest moments. This episode is a powerful reminder that mental health care is about more than protocols—it's about relationships, trust, and the courage to rethink how we support the next generation.

Welcome to Mind the Kids, the podcast where we dive into the journeys, innovations, and global perspectives shaping child and adolescent mental health. Your host is Clara Faria, an academic clinical fellow in child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Cambridge. In this special episode, Clars talks to Professor Andrés Martin, Riva Riella Ritvo Professor at the Yale Child Study Center, and Medical Director of Yale's Children's Psychiatric Inpatient Service. Professor Martin is a renowned leader in child and adolescent psychiatry, celebrated for his contributions to medical education, mentorship, and global mental health initiatives. Together, they explore Professor Martin's inspiring path from medical school in Mexico to leadership at Yale, the transformative power of mentorship and community, and the enduring legacy of Professor Donald Cohen. They discuss the importance of nurturing the next generation of clinician-academics, the balance between research and clinical work, and how qualitative research can bring new insights to the field. Whether you're an early-career professional, a student, or simply passionate about youth mental health, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and a sense of belonging in a vibrant international community. Tune in and be inspired by stories of legacy, learning, and the power of working together—from generation to generation. Subscriber to ACAMH ‘Mind the Kids' wherever you get your podcasts from.

Welcome to Mind the Kids, the podcast where we explore global innovations and stories in youth mental health. Your host is Clara Faria, a child and adolescent psychiatrist in training and research scientist at the University of Cambridge. In this episode, Clara sits down with Tom Osborn—community mobilizer, entrepreneur, research scientist, and founder of the Shamiri Institute in Kenya. Tom shares his inspiring journey from rural Kenya to Harvard, and how his passion for community-driven change led him to pioneer scalable, evidence-based mental health interventions for young people in low-resource settings. We dive into the origins of the Shamiri Institute, the power of peer-to-peer support, and the lessons learned from adapting community health worker models to mental health care. Tom also discusses the unique challenges facing youth in Kenya, the importance of South-South collaboration, and why building on local strengths is key to sustainable impact. If you're passionate about mental health, innovation, and making a difference for young people worldwide, this episode is for you. Tune in and be inspired by stories of resilience, creativity, and hope from the frontlines of global mental health.  Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts from. 

Step into the world of youth mental health with Mind the Kids. In this episode, host Clara Faria welcomes Professor Giovanni Salum, Senior Vice President of Global Programs at the Child Mind Institute and Associate Professor at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul.  Together, they explore the groundbreaking Brazilian High Risk Cohort Study, which has shaped our understanding of child development and mental health in Brazil for over 15 years. Professor Salum shares key findings—like the staggering fact that 80% of children diagnosed with mental health conditions in Brazil do not receive treatment—and discusses how poverty and positive traits shape outcomes for young people. The conversation moves beyond research, delving into Salum's transition from academia to public health leadership, the challenges of delivering care in a vast country, and the importance of community engagement, capacity building, and global collaboration.  Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on bridging the gap between research and real-world impact, and discover why understanding local contexts and investing in strengths are essential for advancing youth mental health—both in Brazil and around the world 

How can we make mental health support more accessible and effective for children and adolescents? In this episode of Mind the Kids, host Clara Faria sits down with Professor Maria Loades to explore the promise of single session interventions—a cutting-edge approach designed to deliver immediate, evidence-based help in just one session. Is it really a case of ‘One and done?'. Together, they unpack the barriers that keep many young people from seeking support, from stigma to logistical hurdles, and discuss how culturally sensitive, age-appropriate, and trustworthy resources can break down these walls. The conversation highlights the importance of listening to young people's voices in shaping mental health services, the need for thoughtful consent processes for those under 16, and the potential for digital, on-demand interventions to serve as both a first step and a bridge to further care.  Whether you're a practitioner, parent, or advocate, this episode offers fresh insights into how single session interventions could transform youth mental health access and outcomes

In this enlightening episode of Mind the Kids, our host Clara Faria, an ACAMH Young Person Ambassador, is joined by Professor Amit Baumel, Associate Professor at the University of Haifa and winner of the 2024 ACAMH Digital Innovation Award.  Together, they explore how digital mental health interventions can be designed to truly make a difference—particularly for parents, children, and underserved populations. From “therapeutic persuasiveness” to scalable solutions and AI-powered mental health tools, this conversation blends psychological science, human-centred tech design, and meaningful clinical insight.  A must-listen for professionals, researchers, and anyone curious about the future of mental health support.

Welcome to the Mind the Kids podcast, and welcome to Clara Faria our host for this series. Mind the Kids is your go-to series for inspiring conversations and expert insights into the mental health of children and young people around the globe. Each episode dives into the latest research, real-world experiences, and practical strategies for supporting young minds. In Clara's first episode, ‘Mental Health and Exercise' we're thrilled to welcome Dr. Nicolas Fabiano, a psychiatry resident at the University of Ottawa and a passionate science communicator. Together, they explore the powerful connection between exercise and mental health—discussing how physical activity can help prevent and manage depression, anxiety, and more.  They also tackle the common divide between physical and mental health, and why it's time to treat them as deeply interconnected aspects of well-being. Whether you're a parent, educator, clinician, or just curious about mental health, this episode offers valuable takeaways and evidence-based advice. 

Welcome to Mind the Kids, the podcast where research meets real-world practice in child and adolescent mental health. Hosted by Dr. Jane Gilmore, Honorary Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Child Development Programme Director at UCL, and Professor Umar Toseeb, expert in child and adolescent mental health and special educational needs, each episode dives into the latest topics from the research literature. Join us as we engage with leading authors and sift through the data, dilemmas, and debates—leaving you with practical takeaways for both academics and practitioners. In this episode, “Only the Lonely”, Jane and Umar talk to Professor Roz Shafran, Emeritus Professor of Population, Policy & Practice. Population, Policy & Practice Dept. UCL GOS Institute of Child Health.  They discuss the complexities of loneliness, covering definitions of loneliness, its heterogeneous nature, risk factors, the importance of screening, and potential interventions. The conversation emphasises the need for a nuanced understanding of loneliness and the necessity for effective strategies to address it. Whether you're a researcher, educator, clinician, or simply passionate about supporting young minds, Mind the Kids is your essential guide to understanding and improving the mental health of children and adolescents.

This episode of the "Mind the Kids" podcast, titled "Anxiety and Paranoia: What Lies Beneath?", features hosts Dr. Jane Gilmour and Prof. Umar Toseeb in conversation with Dr. Jessica Kingston. The discussion unpacks the complexities of paranoia and social anxiety during adolescence, examining how these experiences manifest, their definitions, and what they mean for child development and emotional well-being.  The episode explores the prevalence of paranoid thoughts among young people, the difference between typical worries and clinical concerns, and the impact of lived experiences on the development of paranoid beliefs. Listeners will gain insights into the adaptive aspects of paranoia, the importance of mental health literacy, and why adolescence is such a critical time for developing social relationships. The conversation also highlights the need for parents and educators to recognize signs of distress, normalize intense emotions, and support youth as they navigate mental health challenges.  This episode draws on the latest psychological research and offers practical coping strategies for families and professionals supporting adolescent mental health.

This episode is called 'Reading between the lines' and is part of the "Mind the Kids" podcast series, produced by the Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health (ACAMH). Hosted by Dr. Jane Gilmour and Prof. Umar Toseeb, with guest Dr. Germán Grande, the discussion explores how the home literacy environment shapes children's reading development and long-term outcomes. The conversation highlights the importance of parental involvement, the interplay between genetics and environmental factors, and how early literacy experiences can influence educational success.  Listeners will gain insights into the roles of family, culture, and schools in fostering reading skills, and discover practical ways to support children's literacy from early childhood onwards. This episode is ideal for parents, educators, and anyone interested in child development, education, and mental health, offering evidence-based advice and expert perspectives on building strong foundations for children's futures

 We're excited to share the latest episode of Mind the Kids, hosted by Dr. Jane Gilmore (UCL) and Professor Umar Toseeb (University of York). This episode dives into the complex relationship between parenting styles and infant characteristics, exploring whether their influences on child development are simply additive-or something more nuanced. Joined by special guest Dr. Robert Eves (Bielefeld University), we discuss groundbreaking research using large, nationally representative datasets to unpack how parenting and child traits interact. We also break down key theoretical models-like diathesis-stress, vantage sensitivity, and differential susceptibility-in accessible language, with practical takeaways for parents, practitioners, and researchers alike.  Whether you're a parent, academic, or professional in child development, tune in for evidence-based insights and a thoughtful discussion on what really shapes children's outcomes.

What happens when friendships become the cornerstone of childhood mental health? In this episode of Mind the Kids – Mental Health: Best mates and Classmates, Dr. Jane Gilmour and Professor Umar Toseeb, joined by Dr. Tom Wu, unravel the powerful connections between peer relationships and emotional wellbeing in young people. From the playground to the classroom, the trio explores how friendships evolve, why quality matters more than quantity, and how popularity can shape – or sometimes complicate – the social landscape. They discuss the complex, two-way relationship between mental health and friendships, revealing how emotional struggles can make it harder to connect, while strong friendships can buffer against adversity. The conversation also highlights the importance of understanding cultural differences in friendship dynamics and why interventions that put mental health first can lead to better social outcomes. With practical insights for educators and a call for emotional literacy programs in schools, this episode offers a fresh perspective on why supporting children's social worlds is key to nurturing resilient, mentally healthy young people.

In this episode, Dr. Jane Gilmour and Professor Umar Toseeb unravel the complexities of autism diagnosis, shining a spotlight on the often-overlooked gender differences and the unique mental health challenges faced by autistic youth. With autism identification rates on the rise and growing recognition of co-occurring conditions, the discussion explores why so many autistic children and young people-especially girls-are missed, misdiagnosed, or misunderstood.  Dr. Miriam Martini joins to share her research on how psychiatric diagnoses often precede autism identification, revealing the critical need for earlier recognition and tailored support. Together, they delve into why autistic girls are frequently diagnosed later than boys, how anxiety and the pressure to fit in can mask autistic traits, and how diagnostic overshadowing can leave mental health needs unmet. Tune in for a nuanced look at why understanding the interplay between gender, co-occurring conditions, and mental health is essential-not just for accurate diagnosis, but for ensuring every autistic young person receives the support they deserve.

In the premiere episode of Mind the Kids, Dr. Jane Gilmour and Professor Umar Toseeb delve into the world of the Manosphere—an online space where misogynistic content is widespread, especially among young men. Together with Professor Harriet Over, they examine the mental health implications, the growing concerns of educators, and the urgent need for research and community-specific interventions.  The episode unpacks how online influence shapes gender attitudes, the complexities of radicalisation, and the critical role of positive male role models. The conversation highlights the necessity of understanding young people's motivations and the impact of social media algorithms in spreading harmful content. Key Takeaways The Manosphere poses a real concern for the mental health of young men. Misogynistic content is increasingly accessible and influential online. Educators are noticing the effects and express growing concern about the Manosphere's reach. There is a pressing need for more research to understand the Manosphere and its effects. The relationship between consuming online content and developing misogynistic attitudes is complex and not always direct. Effective interventions must be tailored to the unique needs of different communities. Positive male role models are essential to counteract harmful online influences. It is vital to create safe spaces for open conversations about misogyny and gender attitudes. Understanding what draws young people to these communities is key to designing effective solutions. Social media algorithms play a significant role in what content young people see and engage with.

What is the culture around prescribing antipsychotics to young people? Are there concerns around over-prescribing antipsychotics in young people? How can we reduce antipsychotics use in children and adolescents? All this and more answered as Jo Carlowe interviews Dr. Robert Penfold about the Safer Use of Antipsychotics in Youth (SUAY) pragmatic trial, as published in the JCPP.

How important is language for children's development? Is there a relationship between language difficulties and socioeconomic status? Do language interventions improve other aspects of development? All this and more answered as Professor Umar Toseeb interviews Professor Charles Hulme about his recent research into the efficacy of the Oral Language for Literacy Intervention (OLLI) programme.

Why is there a growing concern around screen time? Is social media bad for young people's wellbeing? What is the impact of the digital divide? All this and more answered as Professor Umar Toseeb interviews Professor Pete Etchells about his work, the impact of screen time and social media, and his recent book ‘Unlocked: The Real Science of Screen Time'.

What does the term ‘sexual minority' mean? Why might sexual minority adolescents have poorer mental health? How can we support sexual minority youth with their mental health? All this and more answered as Professor Umar Toseeb interviews Dr. Kunle Oginni about his research into the mental health of sexual minority individuals, including young people, using genetic research designs.

What are the different ways in which child maltreatment is measured in research? How do different measures of maltreatment impact the relationship with psychopathology? Why are there inconsistencies in reports of maltreatment? All this and more answered as Professor Umar Toseeb interviews Dr. Oonagh Coleman about why prospective and retrospective measures of maltreatment differ.

What are some of the characteristics of autism in childhood? What are Social Stories? How can the Social Stories™ intervention address the social and emotional health of autistic children in UK primary schools? All this and more answered as Professor Umar Toseeb interviews Professor Barry Wright, Dr. Jane Blackwell, Dr. Kerry Bell, and Emma Standley about their pragmatic randomised controlled trial of the Social Stories™ intervention.