Your Friendly Child Psychiatrist: Dr Taghrid

This week, we're shining the spotlight on ADHD. Have you ever wondered why your child can't sit still? ADHD might be the reason! In this episode, I demystify this complex condition. I'll be defining ADHD, discussing how it differs from standard behaviour, and examining the three primary symptoms: hyperactivity, difficulty maintaining attention, and impulsivity. I'll explore the path of treatment o...

As a child psychiatrist, I've seen my fair share of worries and fears, but when my children began to show signs of anxiety, it hit home in an unexpected way. In this episode, I uncover the often-missed signals of anxiety in children under five and share how these young minds might express their concerns. Together, we'll explore the tightrope between genetics and upbringing in shaping a child's emo...

Have you ever found yourself puzzled by the energy and unpredictability of a child under five? In this episode, I navigate the complicated landscape of ADHD in children under five. Through a blend of personal insight and professional expertise, I share the delicate process of distinguishing between normal childhood behaviours and the signs that may point to ADHD. It's a path filled with caution, c...

Have you ever found yourself at a loss when your little one's emotions run high or noticed behaviours that make you wonder if they're just quirky or if there's something more? In this episode, I journey through the terrain of early childhood development, with a particular lens on autism in children under five. I unearth the complexities of young minds, uncovering what autism might look like in our...

Has your child ever experienced sudden urges to sneeze or blink and found resisting nearly impossible? In this episode, I explore the world of tics in children, drawing parallels between these irresistible urges and the premonitory sensations that children with tics experience. I break down the involuntary nature of tics and their classification into four categories: simple, complex, motor, and vo...

Have you ever felt the weight of your child's gaze on you as they absorb your words and the energy behind them?  In this episode, I explore the profound impact parental mental health has on our little ones. From the silent lessons we teach them in the womb to the emotional dance of a public tantrum, revealing that our emotional states are the building blocks for our children's emotional intel...

Do you ever find yourself unable to fall asleep, tossing and turning all night long? If so, you're not alone. In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Hussam Marey, a somnologist who has a deep understanding of the mysteries of sleep. Together, we explore why sleep can be so difficult to achieve, particularly for those who are neurodiverse. We delve into the specific sleep problems faced by individuals...

Have you ever found yourself lost in the sea of ADHD treatment options, wondering which path is best to take? In this episode, I guide you through the often misunderstood world of ADHD medications and behavioural strategies. Together, we'll embark on a journey that reveals the truths behind stimulant medications and non-stimulant options, which have shown surprising success in ADHD management. I a...

Let's tackle the complex and sensitive topic of trauma in children and teens. In this episode, I'll give you an insightful understanding of how ordinary parental arguments can become severe threats to little minds. Together, we'll explore the grey areas between everyday family life and traumatic incidents, reminding you to be conscious of your emotional wellness while discussing these matters. We'...

Drawing from her personal experience of living with an acquired brain injury, Zoe Roscoe, a resilient cognitive and behavioural psychotherapist, uncovers the deep-seated societal stigmas and struggles that disabled individuals face. For years, Zoe has grappled with proving her disability to society and has experienced firsthand the significant impact this has on mental health. We delve into the wo...

Have you ever wondered why your child can't sit still? ADHD might be the reason! In this episode, I demystify this complex condition. I'll be defining ADHD, discussing how it differs from standard behaviour, and examining the three primary symptoms: hyperactivity, difficulty maintaining attention, and impulsivity. I'll explore the path of treatment options for ADHD, spanning from lifestyle alterat...

Following on from our previous episode, where we looked at what exactly depression is, Dr. Mourad Wahba joins me for another episode where we remove the veil of uncertainty around the treatment of depression.  Together, we explore the intricacies of psychotherapy approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Behavioural Activation that are key in combating negative thought cycles...

Does depression discriminate? Are the young untouched while the mature suffer? In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Mourad Wahba, an expert in adult mood disorders, and we navigate the murky waters of depression as it manifests across various age groups. Together, we explore this debilitating condition, from the symptoms to its impact on daily life and its potential to distort a person's worldview....

What does it mean to be autistic, and how does autism change with age? These are just some of the questions we explore with our esteemed guest, Dr Tim Morris, a specialist in child psychiatry. Together, we’ll tackle diagnosing autism, discussing how it manifests differently in children, teenagers and adults. We focus on the two core components of autism - social communication difficulty and rigidi...

Child psychiatrist joins us as together, we unlock the complexities behind self-harm among children and young adults. During our sensitive conversation, we’ll empower you with insights into this concerning behaviour, its forms and intents. We’ll explore the challenge of spotting self-harm and explain the role social media plays in this issue. In addition, we will share the difficulties faced by in...

One-on-one with Dr Hosam Alhamoui, an expert in adult psychiatry and medical psychotherapy, we cut through the noise to bring you an insightful conversation about treating borderline personality disorder (BPD). Unveiling the intricacies of Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), we discuss how this demanding yet effective programme blends group and individual therapies to deliver techniques for dis...

Is there really a 'normal' personality template, or is it simply a unique personal experience? In this episode, we are joined by Dr Hosam Alhamoui a specialist in medical psychotherapy and adult psychiatry, as we dare to question the societal norms and stigmas surrounding personality disorders, specifically borderline personality disorder. We traverse the complex landscape of the human mind, takin...

Have you ever seen a child, frozen by fear, unable to speak or even move? In this episode, we explore the intricate world of child and youth anxiety. Together, we'll pull back the curtains on anxiety's many masks, from generalised worry to selective mutism, phobias and panic disorders. We’ll dive into the unique ways children and young people perceive and express their anxiety - sometimes, not wit...

Psychotherapy. It's a term that conjures up images of Freud's couch, yet it's evolved far beyond that. In this episode, I help you get to grips with psychotherapy's complexities, breaking down technical jargon and explaining therapy types for children and young people. We take a look at the difference between psychological and psychiatric formulation and the benefits individual and group therapy c...

Have you ever puzzled over the difference between psychologists, psychiatrists and psychotherapists? Join me, Dr. Taghrid, as I unravel the landscape of mental health professionals, unlocking the mystery of who does what in this field. We'll explore the examination process, particularly for children and young individuals whilst unpacking the significance of diagnosis and formulation in psychiatry....

I am Dr Taghrid, your friendly child psychiatrist. I'm on a mission to help young people, families and professionals understand neurodiversity and mental illness. From autism to trauma, from depression to self harm - I’m here to help you make sense of the most complex of issues in the simplest of ways.  Each Wednesday I'll walk you through topics that are important to you. I’ll bring you expe...