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Shrinking It Down: Mental Health Made Simple

Health & Wellness Podcasts

"Shrinking It Down" highlights the fact that youth mental health is anything but simple! Child & adolescent psychiatrists Dr. Gene Beresin and Dr. Khadijah Booth Watkins help parents and other caring adults to navigate tough questions about child and teen mental health. From depression and learning disorders, to digital media and societal concerns, Shrinking It Down covers it all. Tune in the THIRD Thursday of every month. Subscribe wherever you stream. About Us: The Clay Center for Young Healthy Minds at Massachusetts General Hospital is a multi-media educational resource to help adults support the mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being of young people through innovative education. Visit us online at mghclaycenter.org. This podcast is for educational purposes only. The Clay Center does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any health-related questions you may have. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Location:

United States

Description:

"Shrinking It Down" highlights the fact that youth mental health is anything but simple! Child & adolescent psychiatrists Dr. Gene Beresin and Dr. Khadijah Booth Watkins help parents and other caring adults to navigate tough questions about child and teen mental health. From depression and learning disorders, to digital media and societal concerns, Shrinking It Down covers it all. Tune in the THIRD Thursday of every month. Subscribe wherever you stream. About Us: The Clay Center for Young Healthy Minds at Massachusetts General Hospital is a multi-media educational resource to help adults support the mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being of young people through innovative education. Visit us online at mghclaycenter.org. This podcast is for educational purposes only. The Clay Center does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any health-related questions you may have. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Language:

English

Contact:

617-643-1590


Episodes
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Chasing Sunshine: Teen Loneliness & Tips for Beating the Summer Blues

6/18/2025
While the summer is usually painted as time of fun, freedom, and relaxation, for many teens it can feel like the exact opposite — disconnected, isolating, and emotionally heavy. Without the daily structure of school or regular peer interaction, teens can find themselves feeling invisible, left out, or unsure of where they belong. In the season 8 finale, Gene and Khadijah dive into the impact summer can have on teen loneliness. Tune in for practical tips for parents on how to help their teens stay connected, the power of self-care and creative expression, and ways to keep your teen busy this summer! We wish you a connected and relaxing summer! We’ll see you back here in August to discuss the transition from childhood to adult ADHD with special guest Tony Rostain, MD, MA. Media List Summertime: Making The Livin’ Easy With KidsOver-Scheduled, Stressed-Out Families11 Self-Care Tips for Teens and Young AdultsHomepageWhy Activism Is Good For Teens — And The CountryThe Vital Role and Methods of Mental Health Advocacy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:33:39

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The Vital Role and Methods of Mental Health Advocacy

5/22/2025
Why are our young people struggling so much? In this special episode for Mental Health Awareness Month, Gene and Khadijah dive into the growing youth mental health epidemic. They explore the sharp rise in anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges among children and teens since the 1980s—fueled by factors like social media, shifting family dynamics, economic inequality, and systemic discrimination. With only about 11,400 child and adolescent psychiatrists in the U.S. for the 14–20 million young people who need care, the workforce shortage is dire. Gene and Khadijah call for urgent advocacy—encouraging listeners to support change through actions like contacting lawmakers, engaging with local communities, joining peer support efforts, and promoting mental health education. Tune in for a candid, compassionate conversation about how we can all help make mental health care more accessible and equitable for our youth. Media List Addressing the Youth Mental Health Epidemic Severe Shortage of Child and Adolescent PsychiatristsVarying Estimates of Social Workers in the United States: Which Data Source to Use?Ways to Help Your Lonely Teen Online CourseConflict Resolution Course Active Minds The Power of Peer SupportWhy Activism Is Good For Teens — And The CountryIf It's Okay To Not Be OkayWhat’s Up With Everyone? A Youth Mental Health Campaign With Academy-Award Winning Aardman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:31:56

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More Than Just a Picky Eater - ARFID

4/17/2025
Almost everyone knows a picky eater, either from their own childhood or from their child's experiences. But sometimes picky eating goes beyond a simple preference for plain pasta. In this episode of Shrinking it Down: Mental Health Made Simple, Gene and Khadijah sit down with Dr. Kamryn Eddy to unpack the complexities of ARFID —Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. More than just picky eating, ARFID can significantly impact a person's physical health and social life, leading to growth issues, nutritional deficiencies, and emotional struggles. Tune in to hear more about ARFID, its treatments, and its promising recovery outcomes. Media List Kamryn Eddy, Ph.D.ARFIDARFIDEating Disorders Screening Tool Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:44:59

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Teen Nicotine Use

2/27/2025
In 2024, the CDC reported that 1 in 29 middle school and 1 in 13 high school students used e-cigarettes monthly, with 8% using tobacco products. These statistics are especially troubling, given than 9 in 10 adults who smoke daily first tried smoking by the age of 18. On this episode of Shrinking it Down, Gene and Khadijah are joined by Dr. Randi Schuster of the MGH Center for Addiction Medicine to discuss ways to recognize the signs of teen nicotine use and strategies parents and schools can use to combat the new forms of nicotine. Media List Randi Schuster, Ph.D. Center for Addiction MedicineiDECIDETruth Initiative: freedom from nicotine addictionSmoking and Tobacco Use | Smoking and Tobacco UseTobacco/Nicotine and Vaping | National Institute on Drug AbuseHighlights for the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and HealthMy Life My Quit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:46:53

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Addressing Your Family's Anxieties about California Wildfires

1/23/2025
The Palisades Fire has been devastating California since the start of the year, destroying over 23,000 acres and nearly 5,000 structures. In this special episode of Shrinking it Down, Dr. Gene Beresin and Dr. Khadijah Booth Watkins explore the emotional impact of these fires, sharing strategies for parents to help them manage their own and their family's anxieties about the fires. Media List Palisades Fire California Wildfires Response Breaking News and Kids The Psychological Gift Of Giving A Gift (MGH Clay Center)Climate Anxiety and Kids, featuring Elizabeth Pinsky, MD (MGH Clay Center)10 Self-Care Tips for Parents (MGH Clay Center) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:25:07

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Shrinking it Down will return in January

12/19/2024
Shrinking it Down will return on January 23rd for a special episode on teen nicotine misuse. Happy Holidays and we hope you have a great New Year! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:01:06

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Parents Under Pressure

11/21/2024
In the recent Advisory, Parents Under Pressure, the US Surgeon General noted that parents are currently more stressed, burned out, and lonely than ever before. The alarming statistics are not all that different than his Advisories on the Youth Mental Health and Loneliness Epidemics that have been escalating since the late 1970s. In this episode of Shrinking it Down, Gene and Khadijah discuss this new advisory and what parents can do to combat these increased feelings of stress and loneliness. Media List Parents Under PressureProtecting Youth Mental HealthOur Epidemic of Loneliness and IsolationSelf-Care for ParentsNAMI | National Alliance on Mental IllnessMyths About the 12-Step ProgramParental Stress: Practical Tips in Response to the Surgeon General Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:25:26

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Supporting Youth in a World Riddled by Conflict

10/17/2024
Let's be honest, we're all stressed. We're stressed about climate change, world crises, the upcoming election, or even just the common stressors of everyday life: economic pressures, relationship issues, burnout, you name it. So, with all stress, our conversations can easily become more uncivilized. In this episode of Shrinking it Down, Gene and Khadijah discuss the key elements of conflict resolution, strategies for civil conversations, and a special role-play scenario to help demonstrate positive conflict resolution. Media List Political Polarization in the American PublicConflict Resolution - 10 Tips for FamiliesParents Under Pressure Parental Stress: Practical Tips in Response to the Surgeon General Episode music by Gene Beresin Episode produced by Spenser Egnatz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:32:32

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Navigating Special Education in Schools Part 2: Working with the Team and Your Child

9/19/2024
The Special Education system in school can be confusing, especially if you haven’t been through the process with a child before. In part 2 of this series, Gene and Khadijah continue their discussion with Ellen Braaten, PhD, and Eileen Hagerty, Esq, who specialize in learning disabilities and special education law. They discuss evaluation results, advocacy, and the importance of destigmatizing special ed. Media List Learning & Emotional Assessment Program (LEAP)Ellen Braaten, PhDEileen M. Hagerty, Kotin, Crabtree & Strong, LLPMassachusetts Advocates for ChildrenNavigating Special Education in Schools Part 1: Legal and Practical TipsWrightslaw Special Education Law and AdvocacyFrom Emotions to Advocacy by Pamela Darr Wright and Peter W.D. WrightParents Have the Power to Make Special Education Work Episode music by Gene Beresin Episode produced by Spenser Egnatz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:44:49

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Navigating Special Education in Schools Part 1: Legal and Practical Tips

8/29/2024
Welcome back to a new season of Shrinking it Down: Mental Health Made Simple! For our season premiere, Gene and Khadijah are joined by two special guests who specialize in learning disabilities and special education law – Ellen Braaten, PhD, and Eileen Hagerty, Esq, – to do a deep dive on the special education system. On part 1 of this two-part series, they provide legal and practical tips by discussing the definitions, rights, and processes involved in special education evaluations Media List Learning & Emotional Assessment Program (LEAP)Ellen Braaten, PhDEileen M. Hagerty, Kotin, Crabtree & Strong, LLPMassachusetts Advocates for ChildrenCoping With ADHD: How A Young Man And His Mom Are Managing The Path To SuccessOur Greatest Strengths, Part 2Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)Intro to Processing SpeedWhat are the Best Treatments for ADHDDyslexia 101What is AutismMassachusetts Advocates for Children Helpline Episode music by Gene Beresin Episode produced by Spenser Egnatz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:50:31

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Stories for Children's Mental Health

6/20/2024
Stories matter, especially when it comes to children's mental health and wellbeing. For our season finale, Gene and Khadijah are joined by two special guests from Barefoot Books – book editor Lisa Rosinsky and children’s author Joelle Retener. They explore how stories help kids to make sense of the world in all of its confusion and beauty by taking a closer look at Marley’s Pride, a new children’s book about overcoming big anxieties and realizing the power of community. Plus, stay tuned to the end to hear everyone’s favorite children’s book! Media List The Importance of Stories for Child HealthBarefoot Books - About UsJoelle RetenerMarley’s PrideMindful Kids Card DeckBerry Song, by Michaela GoadeLittle Witch Hazel, by Phoebe WallThe Snowy Day, by Jack KeatsThe Velveteen Rabbit, by Margery Williams BiancoWe wish you a story-filled summer! We’ll see you back here in October on the Third Thursday of every month. Until then, be well. Episode music by Gene Beresin Episode produced by Spenser Egnatz and Sara Rattigan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:34:57

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Boys, Body Image + Eating Disorders, feat. Jason Nagata, MD, MSc

5/16/2024
When you hear the term “eating disorders” what do you think of? Probably not boys and men. Yet, adolescent boys struggle with body image and disordered eating behaviors nearly just as much as girls. On today’s show, eating disorder specialist Jason Nagata, MD joins Gene and Khadijah to unpack what every parent should know about disordered eating in boys. They discuss the pressures boys face when it comes to body ideals, the impact of sports culture, and how to recognize signs of an eating disorder in your child. Media List Jason Nagata, MDWhy eating disorders are affecting more adolescent boysParents’ perception of their child’s body imageBoys, Bulk, and Body Ideals: Sex Differences in Weight Gain Attempts Among Adolescents in the United StatesThe real cost of a “Marvel body”: How the pressure to look like Thor and Captain America is hurting menMuscle DysmorphiaResearch suggests student athletes face body image concerns, develop rigid eating habitsDisordered eating and considerations for the transgender communityWhat Are the Treatments for Eating Disorders?Being You: The Body Image Book for BoysResource Center19 of Your Favorite Superheroes: Then and Now Special thanks to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) for connecting us with special guest Jason Nagata, MD. Podcast theme music by Gene Beresin, MD, MA Episode research by Spenser Egnatz Episode produced by Sara Rattigan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:40:01

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The Role of Roleplay in Therapy

4/18/2024
If you’re a regular listener, you’ll know we often reference the benefits of casual roleplay games - from dress up to Dungeons & Dragons - for healthy child development. It can help kids better understand themselves, gain a deeper understanding of others, and build confidence. Today, Gene and Khadijah explore roleplay through a more therapeutic lens. They are joined by special guests John Corbett, MD and Terrance Dolan, MD, two MGH/McLean Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellows (and lovers of roleplay games) to delve deeper into how it can be used in therapy and at home to support our kids’ mental health. Stay tuned to the end to hear everyone’s favorite games! Media List Follow along with the conversation. John Corbett, MDTerrance Dolan, MDThe Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Residence of MGH/McLeanRole-playingThe use of clinical role-play and reflection in learning therapeutic communication skills in mental health education: an integrative reviewWhat Is Family Therapy?The Positive Value of Conflict ResolutionThe Psychology of Video Game AvatarsWhy do kids love Roblox?Helping Kids With Challenging Behavior, feat. Stuart Ablon, PhDThe Incredible Hulk, TV seriesThanks for joining in this conversation. We’ll see you back on the THIRD Thursday of next month! Podcast music by Gene Beresin Episode produced by Sara Rattigan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:38:36

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Alcohol & Drugs - Why Do Teens Use?

3/21/2024
The teen years can be a time for experimenting with alcohol and other drugs. But a recent CDC study found the reason why teens use substances today isn’t just for experimentation, but also to stop worrying about problems, and even to help with depression or anxiety. Today, Gene and Khadijah discuss how to approach your teen if you’ve discovered they are using alcohol, marijuana, or a prescription or over-the-counter drug, and what health risks to know about for each of these. These are hard conversations to have. We hope that ours will help you to have yours. Media List When to Worry, What to Do PDF LibraryCDC Report Indicates Teens are Seeking to Escape Worries and Stress Through Drug UseFacing Addiction in America: The Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and HealthAlcohol & Adolescents, featuring John F. Kelly, PhD, ABPPAlcohol - Conversation Starters with Dr. Gene BeresinAsking Adolescents About Alcohol with Dr. Khadijah Booth WatkinsCannabis and the Teen Brain, featuring Jodi Gilman, PhDOnce You Have Discovered Your Teen Is Using Pot, What’s the Next Step?Commonly Abused Prescription and OTC DrugsNARCAN’s Available Over the Counter, Should I Carry It?Addiction Recovery Management Services When to Worry, What to Do PDF LibraryMyths About the 12-Step ProgramFind a Treatment FacilityIf you have a question that we didn’t cover, please get in touch. Write to Gene or Khadijah at mghclaycenter@mgb.org. Music by Gene Beresin Episode produced by Sara Rattigan and Spenser Egnatz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:33:33

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Equine Therapy. How Does It Work?

2/15/2024
Many of us have heard of dog therapy and pet therapy. But what exactly is equine therapy? Special guest Janice Gilman of BINA Farm Center joins Gene and Khadijah to help us learn about the many different kinds of equine therapy for kids. What make horses so unique when it comes to therapeutic treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and more? Plus, tune in until the end to hear everyone's favorite horse films and TV shows! Media List Follow along with the conversation. Who We AreHow Much Does a Horse Weigh?Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy: Facing Trauma With a horse by Their SideVery fashionable Angel!HippotherapyEffect of animal assisted interactions on activity and stress response in children in acute care settingsHow Horses Read Human EmotionsTherapeutic horseback riding for at-risk adolescents in residential careEffects of Therapeutic Hoseback-Riding Program on Social and Communication Skills in Children with Autism Spectrum DisorderBuckThe Incredible Dr. PolThe Black Stallion (1979) ORIGINAL TRAILERFind a Program – Equine Assisted Services New episodes on the THIRD Thursday of every month. Subscribe wherever you stream! Music by Gene Beresin Research by Spenser Egnatz Produced by Sara Rattigan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:28:40

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What Can States Do to Support Youth Mental Health? feat. Senator John C. Velis

1/18/2024
To address the youth mental health crisis, we need to approach it from different angles – including access, education, and legislation. So, what are states doing to make a difference? Today, Gene and Khadijah are joined by special guest Senator John C. Velis of Massachusetts. Senator Velis shines light on current efforts in Massachusetts to better utilize schools for prevention and early intervention, to help increase the behavioral health workforce, and more. He also generously shares some of his personal mental health journey. Read the episode transcript. Media List Follow along with the conversation. Senator John C. VelisA Good Day on Beacon HillJoint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and RecoverySen. John Velis faces alcoholism one day at a timeCould your Honor Student Have an Addiction? feat. Marty WalshRegional roadmap seeks to address youth mental health ‘crisis’D.A.R.E didn’t work. How can school programs actually keep kids off drugs?MCPAPTexas Child Health Access Through TelemedicineWhen to Worry, What to Do – PDF LibraryState commission releases recommendations to bolster behavioral healthPeer Programs Helping Schools Tackle Student Depression, AnxietyHappy Birthday, Carson!We’ll see you back the THIRD Thursday of every month. Subscribe wherever you stream. Music by Gene Beresin Episode produced by Sara Rattigan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:44:43

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What Can States Do to Support Youth Mental Health? feat. Senator John C. Velis

1/18/2024
To address the youth mental health crisis, we need to approach it from different angles – including access, education, and legislation. So, what are states doing to make a difference? Today, Gene and Khadijah are joined by special guest Senator John C. Velis of Massachusetts. Senator Velis shines light on current efforts in Massachusetts to better utilize schools for prevention and early intervention, to help increase the behavioral health workforce, and more. He also generously shares some of his personal mental health journey. Read the episode transcript. Media List Follow along with the conversation. Senator John C. VelisA Good Day on Beacon HillJoint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and RecoverySen. John Velis faces alcoholism one day at a timeCould your Honor Student Have an Addiction? feat. Marty WalshRegional roadmap seeks to address youth mental health ‘crisis’D.A.R.E didn’t work. How can school programs actually keep kids off drugs?MCPAPTexas Child Health Access Through TelemedicineWhen to Worry, What to Do – PDF LibraryState commission releases recommendations to bolster behavioral healthPeer Programs Helping Schools Tackle Student Depression, AnxietyHappy Birthday, Carson!We’ll see you back the THIRD Thursday of every month. Subscribe wherever you stream. Music by Gene Beresin Episode produced by Sara Rattigan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:44:43

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Next Week: Senator John Velis of Massachusetts

1/11/2024
Very special guest Senator John C. Velis of Massachusetts joins Gene and Khadijah to discuss legislative opportunities to address the youth mental health crisis. He says a big focus needs to be on schools, for both intervention and prevention. Be sure to tune in next week on the THIRD Thursday of the month! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:00:44

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Stimulants! feat. Tony Rostain, MD

12/21/2023
What role should prescription stimulant medication play in a child’s ADHD treatment plan? Today, Gene and Khadijah are joined by Tony Rostain, MD, MA, chair of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at Cooper University Health Care, to discuss this and more. How do you talk to your child about stimulants? What side effects should you watch out for? How do you manage after-school rebound? If you’re a parent trying to navigate the stimulant shortage, Dr. Rostain has advice on that, too. PLUS, some cool info on the history of stimulants. Read the episode transcript here. Media List Follow along with the conversation Anthony Rostain, MD, MAWhat’s behind the ADHD drug shortage?Stimulant Abuse: Pharmacology, Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Treatment, Attempts at PharmacotherapyPrimary CareAsk Ellen: How to Help Your Child Develop Executive Function SkillsIs It Safe to Use Stimulants to Treat ADHD?Understanding the Effects of Stimulant Medications on Cognition in Individuals with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Decade of Progress – Figure 4NatureAdverse Effects of Stimulant Interventions for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Comprehensive Systematic ReviewCureusADHD Medications for Children: 8 Questions from ParentsHow stimulant treatment prevents serious outcomes of ADHDReview: ADHD Stigma Is Prevalent GloballyWhat’s causing the unusually high number of drug shortages in the U.S.AACAP Comments on DEA Production Quota Notice for 2024Thanks for joining in this conversation. We’ll see you back here the THIRD Thursday of every month. Subscribe wherever you stream. Music by Gene Beresin Episode research by Spenser Egnatz Episode produced by Sara Rattigan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:45:16

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Stimulants! feat. Anthony Rostain, MD, MA

12/21/2023
What role should prescription stimulant medication play in a child’s ADHD treatment plan? Today, Gene and Khadijah are joined by Tony Rostain, MD, MA, chair of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at Cooper University Health Care, to discuss this and more. How do you talk to your child about stimulants? What side effects should you watch out for? How do you manage after-school rebound? If you’re a parent trying to navigate the stimulant shortage, Dr. Rostain has advice on that, too. PLUS, some cool info on the history of stimulants. Read the episode transcript here. Media List Follow along with the conversation Anthony Rostain, MD, MAWhat’s behind the ADHD drug shortage?Stimulant Abuse: Pharmacology, Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Treatment, Attempts at PharmacotherapyPrimary CareAsk Ellen: How to Help Your Child Develop Executive Function SkillsIs It Safe to Use Stimulants to Treat ADHD?Understanding the Effects of Stimulant Medications on Cognition in Individuals with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Decade of Progress – Figure 4NatureAdverse Effects of Stimulant Interventions for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Comprehensive Systematic ReviewCureusADHD Medications for Children: 8 Questions from ParentsHow stimulant treatment prevents serious outcomes of ADHDReview: ADHD Stigma Is Prevalent GloballyWhat’s causing the unusually high number of drug shortages in the U.S.AACAP Comments on DEA Production Quota Notice for 2024Thanks for joining in this conversation. We’ll see you back here the THIRD Thursday of every month. Subscribe wherever you stream. Music by Gene Beresin Episode research by Spenser Egnatz Episode produced by Sara Rattigan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duration:00:45:16