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FAQs

Submitted by admin on Wed, 10/08/2008 - 13:40

Frequently asked questions

What is a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist?

  • Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists are medical doctors ( MBBS) who have taken specialist training in Psychiatry ( M.D./ DPM/ DNB). After this they go on to get specialist training in mental health issues of children and young people.
  • They are usually trained in one or more psychotherapy techniques for children and families. As medical doctors they can prescribe medications if required.

What does a consultation involve?

  • For first consultation your doctor will ask both the parents to be present and may invite other significant people like grandparents to be present as well.
  • It can be helpful to bring school reports, maths and language notebooks of the child if you are consulting for study related issues.
  • Most consultations require atleast 45-60 minutes.

Do we need to involve the school as well?

  • Sometimes we may requre some information from school for complete assessment of the problem. This is necessary to diagnose attention / concentration problems and education related issues.
  • Your doctor should always ask your permission before contacting the school or any specific teacher.
  • Most schools now have school counsellors. Your doctor can work with them to bring about specific changes in school behaviour as well.

Will my child be given any medications?

  • Most children ( more than 80%) that we see, do not need any medications at all.
  • They are usually helped by counselling, behaviour therapy and specific advice to parents on managing them.

What about dietary advice?

  • Sometimes it is necessary to put dietary restrictions to manage behaviour. This is more relavent in children with concentration problems and autism like issues.
  • There is no fixed rule about this and your doctor will tailor the advice according to the history of your child's difficulties.