Pediatric Meltdown

Lia Gaggino
  • 5.0 (60)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Pediatric Meltdown

Tune in to Pediatric Meltdown and listen to experts provide insights and strategies on a wide variety of behavioral health and mental topics anytime and anywhere that fits your busy schedule. Guests include published researches, primary care colleagues, therapists, educators, parents and even patients. Caring for children and teens with major meltdowns, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, school struggles to name a few along with a myriad long list of behavioral and mental health concerns is daunting and most of us did not receive formal training in residency to prepare us to meet this need. Access to child psychiatry nationally is limited and in some regions just not available at all and as a result we must often provide what can only be called psychiatric care for our pediatric patients. In an effort to increase our understanding of behavioral and mental health assessment and treatment, we attend conferences, read articles, and participate in webinars. You can now add Pediatric Meltdown; the podcast dedicated to children's emotional well-being. Providing behavioral health care at its best is collaborative and connecting with others across disciplines enriches and enhances the care we provide. In the words of Maya Angelou "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better." Let's do better together!

  1. 239. Autism Spectrum Disorders: Parent Navigation Through the Teen Years

    4D AGO

    239. Autism Spectrum Disorders: Parent Navigation Through the Teen Years

    What does it really take to guide a teenager toward independence in an ever-changing world?  From managing IEPs and beginning transition planning at 14 to fostering self-awareness and skills for adult life, the journey is layered with challenges and growth. Parents like today’s guest, Natasha Robertson grapple with teaching social media safety, addressing emotional needs, and balancing day-to-day struggles with long-term goals. The process is both exhausting and inspiring, requiring patience, persistence, and firm advocacy. While the tools like coaching, therapies, and community support help, the weight often falls on families to navigate complex systems, such as educational frameworks and disability services. For teens, building independence means developing judgment, learning routines, and understanding boundaries in a digital age. For parents, like Natasha, it means preparing them for emotional, financial, and social self-reliance while ensuring basic skills are mastered.  Are we as a society truly equipping these families and teens with the tools they need, or are we still leaving them to figure it out in isolation? [00:00 - 08:34]  Evolving Services and Self-AdvocacyRealizing that past trial-and-error with therapies informs current decisionsThe child’s ability to describe symptoms (e.g., stomach pain, insomnia) guides interventionsEmphasizing the shift from purely parent-led advocacy to incorporating the teen’s direct feedbackPreparing for ongoing changes in support needs as the child advances academically and socially [08:35 - 15:47] Navigating the Teen YearsAddressing the impact of puberty and hormonal shifts on behaviorConsidering new social interactions and the need for structured supportImplementing coaching strategies for everyday routines (e.g., chores, picking out clothes)Recognizing that independent living skills build gradually through guided practice [15:48 -28:40]  Managing Digital BoundariesEstablishing phone usage restrictions (e.g., set times) to protect against late-night browsingFinding monitoring tools (apps that flag concerning words) to balance privacy and safetyRealizing that direct honesty about monitoring builds trust with teensCoaching the teen on responsible online communication and the risks of oversharing personal data [28:41 - 53:19]  Caregiver Self-Care and ResilienceCarving out small daily moments for personal relaxation (e.g., a movie break or foot soak)Relieving stress by connecting regularly with supportive friendsObserving that the teen’s increased coping skills allow the caregiver to pause before interveningTrusting the cumulative impact of years of therapies and interventions [53:20 - 1:01:50]   Dr. G’s TakeAwaysContact Natasha Robertson  n.robinson8@gmail.com. Additional Resources MentionedCommunity Living Supports: Services that assist with daily living skills and social engagement.Individualized Education Program (IEP) & Transition Planning: Formal educational plans that outline services and future goals for adolescents.Career-Connect Programs: Local agencies or initiatives that help teens explore job training, résumé building, and employment opportunities.Book: A teen parenting guide by Dr. Ken Ginsburg, titled Congrats, You’re Having a Teen, referenced for positive perspectives on adolescence. a...

    1h 3m
  2. 238. Dr. Gaggino Goes to Washington: Advocacy for Kids

    MAR 19

    238. Dr. Gaggino Goes to Washington: Advocacy for Kids

    Have you ever wondered what happens when children's healthcare programs like Medicaid and CHIP face cuts?  In this episode of Pediatric Meltdown, Dr. Lia Gaggino emphasizes the urgent need to stand up for kids, who are disproportionately impacted by shifts in policy and funding. She highlights the power of sharing real-life stories and forging unexpected partnerships to protect essential resources. Advocacy takes perseverance and creativity, as complacency only enables political and social obstacles to harm children. Pediatricians and other advocates must unite, use their voices effectively, and push for healthier, safer lives for all kids.  So now the only question is….. Will you help safeguard the well-being of the next generation? [00:00 - 05:07] Advocacy Conference Insights for Child HealthA large percentage of children rely on public insurance programs, underscoring the high stakes of legislative decisions.Some decision-makers do not fully grasp the consequences of cutting critical services.Hope fuels long-term efforts and energizes those championing children’s well-being.An “advocacy wave,” highlights the need for a strong, collective push for change. [05:07 - 12:32] Medicaid Challenges and Coverage GapsPublic health emergency rollbacks led to reductions in child enrollment due to procedural missteps.Many children lost insurance coverage not because of ineligibility, but because of bureaucratic hurdles.70% of youth are deemed unfit for certain national service due to physical or mental health issues.Call to safeguard essential child services (such as preventive care and immunizations) from budget cuts [12:32 - 21:07] Immunization and Food Security ConcernsRenewed challenges to routine childhood vaccinations, with instances of preventable diseases appearing again.Politicians downplaying vaccines, prompting greater vigilance in safeguarding public health.Proposals to cut school meal provisions, raising ethical questions about denying basic nutrition to children.Caring for children’s fundamental needs (like food and healthcare) should not be up for debate. [21:07 - end] The Urgent Call to Protect Future GenerationsRejecting indifference and uniting for children’s rights and well-being.Communities where basic resources, such as clean air, safe neighborhoods, and equitable opportunities, are universal.Use every possible platform—professional and community-based—to champion the needs of children.Final rallying cry to stay focused, gather supportive voices, and take concrete steps to safeguard the next generation. Connect with Dr. Gaggino website at www.lifeaftercorporatepodcast.com                                                                                        LinkedIn; https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12656341/ Resources mentioned in the show: AAP Advocacy Guide: Located at aap.org/advocacyguide (helpful for step-by-step approaches to policy engagement).Store It Safe Program: https://ohioaap.org/storeitsafe A collaborative initiative addressing firearm...

    19 min
  3. 237. Physician Wellness: Needed Now More Than Ever

    MAR 12

    237. Physician Wellness: Needed Now More Than Ever

    Could coaching be the key to overcoming burnout and moral injury that plagues the medical profession?  In this episode of Pediatric Meltdown, Dr. Lia Gaggino welcomes back Dr. Adrienne Mann and Dr. Tyra Fainstad, pioneers in physician well-being research, as they unpack the results from their studies on the impact of group coaching on physicians. Drs. Mann and Fainstad share their journey from a "cute little study" to a groundbreaking national program that offers a lifeline to medical students, residents, and faculty. As they study the struggles and triumphs of physicians battling burnout, moral injury, and self-compassion deficits, they reveal a whole new approach to healing and growth.  Hear how their innovative program is providing solace to thousands and lighting a path to flourishing in medicine. [00:05 - 01:17] Transforming Physician Wellness through Coaching Explore the origins of a simple idea during the pandemic that blossomed into a renowned coaching programUnderstand how pivoting to online platforms expanded their coaching reach significantly beyond initial expectationsDiscover the importance of addressing burnout, moral injury, and imposter syndrome in healthcare professionalsLearn about the innovative group coaching model and its profound impacts versus traditional one-on-one methods [01:18 - 03:54] Impactful Outcomes of Group Coaching Recognize the need for a targeted approach focusing initially on women due to higher burnout representationEvaluate the coaching methodology's evolution from novice trials to thousands of residents in randomized control settingsAppreciate insights into baseline distress levels and how these reveal prevailing systemic issuesAnalyze how group coaching effectively elevated self-compassion, reduced moral injury, and tackled burnout [03:55 - 06:06] Inclusivity and Institutional Partnerships Grasp the expanding scope to now include men and diverse genders, enhancing coaching accessibilityReveal the collaboration with institutions to democratize coaching, offering programs at low costs per participantExamine how privacy and anonymity are maintained to encourage participation without stigmaRecognize the structural evolution from restricted groups to open participation for trainees at all career stages [06:07 - 8:52] The Future Direction of Physician Coaching Programs Investigate the ongoing research into why and how coaching uniquely benefits medical professionalsThe potential restructuring of medical leadership to address autonomy and eradicate systemic burnoutAppreciate the continuous refinement and adaptation of the coaching model based on participant feedbackFact-check how empirical evidence supports the coaching method's resilience against challenges posed by modern healthcare [48:51-32:50]  Dr. Lia’s TakeAways Connect with Dr. Adrienne Mann Instagram: @amw1983 Connect with Dr. Tyra Fainstad Instagram: @Tyraindenver Resources Mentioned in the Episode Better Together Coaching  https://bettertogetherphysiciancoaching.com/ -Major updates: You can see our website here for research and peer-reviewed evidence updates.   Of high interest is our most a href="https://www.jabfm.org/content/early/2024/12/23/jabfm.2024.240022R1" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1h 2m
  4. 236. Mental Health Advocacy: The Youth Power Project

    MAR 5

    236. Mental Health Advocacy: The Youth Power Project

    Are today's youth the missing voice in mental health advocacy? In this episode of Pediatric Meltdown, host Dr. Lia Gaggino invites passionate mental health advocate Ria Babaria to talk about the unique struggles and strengths of today's youth. In  her journey from high school advocate to college policy specialist, Ria emphasizes the need for youth representation in mental health decisions. She discusses the Youth Power Project's initiatives, access to mental health resources, and the importance of bridging societal and systemic gaps. From personal challenges to state-wide advocacy, Ria highlights the transformative power of youth voices in policy-making. Join us as we explore the potential changes when youth are given a platform to be heard.  The future of mental health is their future— but are we ready to listen? [00:05 -15:21] The Birth of Youth Advocacy The significance of amplifying youth voices in education and policy through advocacy organizationsImportance of bridging education gaps and providing resources for low-income and vulnerable youthEmpowering youth to assert confidence and influence in advocacy spacesThe transformative impact of including diverse backgrounds in policy discussions [15:12 -22:22] Mental Health Advocacy and Cultural Challenges Addressing mental health struggles within POC households and breaking cultural taboosThe importance of emotion integration for personal growth and social interactionsBuilding confidence to engage in mental health advocacy at a young ageShaping policy through lived experiences and peer discussions [22:23 -38:50] Expanding the Youth Power Project Reach The national evolution from initial state-focused youth groups to broader advocacy at YPPStrategizing for impactful health reform through youth collaboration and legislative workNavigating peer-to-peer networks to bolster the youth advocacy movementTailoring mental health and educational policies around authentic youth voices [38:51-48:50] Enhancing Access and System Reforms Addressing consistency and discrepancies in mental health resource access nationwideInnovative strategies to demystify access and eliminate stigma around mental health supportStrengthening first aid mental health training to improve communication and supportDeveloping legislative frameworks to integrate youth insights within mental health policy 48:51-32:50] Dr. Lia’s TakeAways Connect with Ria                                                                                                                         ria@youthpowerproject.org Resources Mentioned: PHQ-9 Screening Tool for Depression:PHQ-9 QuestionnaireYouth Power Project Website:Youth Power ProjectMental Health First Aid Training:Mental Health First Aid Youth Power Projecta...

    1h 1m
  5. 235. Managing Chronic Pain: Creative Healing for Youth in Pain

    FEB 26

    235. Managing Chronic Pain: Creative Healing for Youth in Pain

    Have you ever wondered what to do when traditional treatments for chronic pain in children don’t seem to help?  In this episode of Pediatric Meltdown, Dr. Lia Gaggino chats with Dr. Lonnie Zeltzer and Kim Poston Miller about innovative ways to address pediatric chronic pain. They discuss CHYP (Creative Healing for Youth in Pain), an organization offering hope to families through a creative, holistic approach to healing. Kim shares her personal story of supporting her son Grant’s remarkable recovery, showing how creativity can play a powerful role in pain management.  Tune in to learn how these approaches are opening new doors for children and families. Could creativity be the missing piece in chronic pain care? [00:02 - 08:46] From Suffering to Hope – Introduction to CHYP Kim talks about her personal journey as an advocate for CHYP, and the pivotal role creative arts played in her child's recovery.Unpack the story behind Dr. Zeltzer’s influence in reshaping pediatric pain management.Learn about the resourcefulness of a mother navigating her child's illness in a segmented medical landscape.Understand CHYP’s role as a free, accessible solution to complex chronic pain issues for any child worldwide. [08:47 - 14:53] Kim’s Inspiring Journey: Transforming Tragedy into Triumph See the power of combining modern medicine with creative healing arts.Examine the interconnected struggles of family members often overlooked in medical treatments.Discover how social engagement became a lifeline for healing and improved quality of life.Find out how a mother's intuition and creative willingness conquered skepticism in professional medical advice. [14:54 - 23:30] The Creative System: Dr.Zeltzer's Vision and CHYP’s Foundation Explore Dr.Zeltzer's 30-year journey of treating kids with chronic pain and the birth of the CHYP initiative.Appreciate the need for an online platform providing holistic, no-cost care to children globally.Grasp the significance of the biopsychosocial model in comprehending pediatric pain.Understand the empowerment and education process for both children and parents under the CHYP program. [23:31 - 54:36] Creating Magic: Camp as a Vessel for Change and Connection Highlight the access to interactive platforms and workshops designed to enhance creative healing for youth.Recognize the significance of larger social networks in managing pain through shared lived experiences.Celebrate the impactful break-through of barriers, from timidity to friends on social platforms.Appreciate CHYP’s strategic growth with events uniquely catering to different age brackets for maximal impact. [54:37 -  1:00:53]  Dr. Lia’s Takeaways  Connect with Lonnie Zeltzer https://linktr.ee/mychyp https://www.instagram.com/my_chyp/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/creative-healing-for-youth-in-pain/ https://www.facebook.com/creativehealingforyouthinpain Connect with Kimberly Miller LI Kimberly Miller, MBA FB a href="https://www.facebook.com/creativehealingforyouthinpain/"...

    1h 1m
  6. 234. Chronic Pain in Kids: An Innovative Approach

    FEB 19

    234. Chronic Pain in Kids: An Innovative Approach

    Did you know that nearly twenty-five percent of adolescents suffer from chronic pain, and for some, it’s severe enough to impact daily life?  In this episode of Pediatric Meltdown, Dr. Lia Gaggino and guest Dr. Lonnie Zeltzer talk about the complexity of chronic pain in children and adolescents—a subject often misunderstood and inadequately addressed in pediatric medicine. Through personal anecdotes and expert insights, Dr. Zeltzer shares her journey from a curiosity about adolescent medicine to specializing in pediatric chronic pain using modern pain science. This conversation not only unravels the preconceived beliefs surrounding chronic pain but also offers potential pathways and methods to manage and reframe the experience of pain in young individuals.  The episode is an eye-opener for anyone seeking to understand and support children grappling with chronic pain. [00:00 - 17:02]  Prevalence and Challenges of Pediatric Chronic PainChronic pain affects 15–30% of adolescents globally, with 15% experiencing severe impairment.  70% of adolescents with untreated chronic pain develop adult chronic pain.  Pediatricians often lack training in modern chronic pain management concepts.  Subspecialists frequently struggle to address chronic pain after ruling out organic causes.  [17:02 - 27:55]  Neurobiological and Psychosocial Factors Chronic pain correlates with limbic system hyperactivity and prefrontal cortex underdevelopment in adolescents.  Neurodiverse individuals may experience heightened sensory sensitivity, amplifying pain perception.  Hypnotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) retrain pain-related neural pathways.  POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome) reflects autonomic nervous system dysregulation linked to chronic pain.  [27:56 - 21:06] Gastrointestinal and Autonomic Dysregulation  Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) stems from brain-gut axis dysfunction, not structural gastrointestinal issues.  Autonomic dysregulation in POTS requires salt intake, hydration, and compression garments for management.  Acupuncture and acupressure offer nonpharmacologic relief, particularly for needle-tolerant patients.  Abdominal pain often involves muscular tension, addressed through targeted physical therapy.   [21:07 - 48:48 ]  Practical Clinical Interventions  Brief in-office mindfulness exercises (e.g., guided breathing) provide immediate stress relief.  Motivational interviewing helps adolescents identify achievable goals, like gradual physical activity.  Parent-child dyads benefit from joint mindfulness apps (e.g., Insight Timer) to reduce household stress.  The "five golden minutes" of non-directed play or connection improve emotional regulation. [48:49 - 54:23]  Dr. Lia’s Takeaways Connect with Lonnie Zeltzer https://linktr.ee/mychyp https://www.instagram.com/my_chyp/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/creative-healing-for-youth-in-pain/ https://www.facebook.com/creativehealingforyouthinpain Resources mentioned in the...

    1 hr
  7. 233. Tackling Child Poverty: The Rx Kids Initiative

    FEB 12

    233. Tackling Child Poverty: The Rx Kids Initiative

    Could a simple cash transfer program hold the key to reducing child poverty?  In this episode of Pediatric Meltdown, host Dr. Lia Gaggino chats with pediatrician and advocate, Dr. Brittney Tayler, about an innovative program called Rx Kids. Together, they explore how cash transfers can improve child health and well-being, especially in communities facing deep poverty. Dr. Tayler shares her firsthand experience in Flint, Michigan, detailing the transformation she's witnessed through the Rx Kids program. From addressing housing issues to boosting educational outcomes, this episode uncovers the impact that a single initiative can have.  Connect with the importance of advocacy and how one person can drive significant change, leaving a lasting impression on the entire community. [00:00 - 05:07] From Pediatrics to Advocacy: Dr. Tayler's JourneyFind out how an accidental advocacy led to Dr. Tayler’s increased involvement in health policy.Understand the significance of Dr. Tayler’s meeting with a senator, and the impact it had on health legislation.Learn about the challenges of navigating advocacy as a medical professional.Appreciate the support Dr. Tayler received from experienced mentors to sharpen her advocacy skills. [05:07 - 12:32] Understanding Poverty's Impact on Child HealthExplore the key aspects of poverty affecting child health, including housing and food security.Recognize the critical role of parents' stress levels in influencing children's well-being.Explore the widespread effects of poverty on all domains of health and life.Analyze how poverty can deeply affect educational outcomes and opportunities for children. [12:32 - 21:07] Rx Kids: Transforming Communities Through Direct Cash TransfersThe transition from expanded child tax credit to the creation of Rx Kids.Discover the pivotal role of expanded child tax credits in reducing child poverty during the pandemic.How small studies and data informed the large-scale development of Rx Kids.Discover the impactful results seen so far in communities participating in direct cash transfer programs. [21:07 - 30:21] Pioneering Change and Empowering CommunitiesUnderstand why Flint, Michigan, became the perfect place to pilot the Rx Kids program.Uncover the logistical aspects and eligibility criteria of the Rx Kids cash transfer program.The importance of dignity, trust, and community-wide benefits in program implementation.Future aspirations: how Rx Kids aims to expand and sustain its impact in Flint and beyond. [30:22 - 35:21]  TakeAways Connect with Dr. Brittney Tayler Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/RxKidsUS Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rxkidsus/ LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rx-kids/ Resources mentioned in the show: https://rxkids.org/about/communities/flint/ Chevy in the Hole by Kelsey Ronan https://www.amazon.com/Chevy-Hole-Novel-Kelsey-Ronan/dp/125080390X  Luke Shaefer PhD a href="https://poverty.umich.edu/projects/flint-rx-kids/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    54 min
  8. 232. And to My Pediatric Friends

    FEB 5

    232. And to My Pediatric Friends

    Ever wonder how the current chaotic world and the state of healthcare are affecting our children, the most vulnerable members of society and those of us who care for them?  Listen to this episode as Lia shares her angst and hope with the complexities of a world facing climate disasters, political strife, physician burnout, and a dwindling trust in science. This solo episode is a self-reflection about building the courage, commitment, and resilience required to safeguard children's health in these turbulent times. As Lia recounts her own experiences during the pandemic and advocates for unwavering integrity in pediatric care, she challenges listeners to reflect on their role to protect the wellbeing of ALL children.. This episode is a call to action—will you answer it?  [00:05- 04:27] Insights on Pediatric Practice  The rigorous process of policy creation and revision within the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).Importance of adhering to evidence-based practices and adapting policies based on scientific discoveries.The challenges pediatricians face, including making life-and-death decisions.Commitment to upholding the Hippocratic Oath despite mounting difficulties.     [04:28 -11:54] Challenges in Pediatric Healthcare Long hours, difficult on-call shifts, and emotionally taxing decisions faced by pediatricians.Inequities in healthcare access, especially for marginalized children.Disinformation surrounding vaccines and its impact on parental decisions.Concerns over administrators dictating healthcare delivery without medical expertise.     [11:55 - 17:58]  Challenges in Pediatric Healthcare The exhaustion and disheartenment experienced by pediatricians.Unfair contracts, financial pressures, and charting demands that intrude on family time.Pediatricians' dedication despite overwhelming demands, driven by a sense of calling.The public's misconceptions about pediatricians' financial motivations regarding vaccines. [17:59 - 22:30] Call to Action and Advocacy A rallying message for pediatricians to support one another and remain resilient.Reinforcement of the commitment to doing what is best for children.The importance of unity and collective efforts to address healthcare challenges.Encouragement to engage with future episodes featuring interesting guests. Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeWebsite: PediatricMeltdown.comAAP (American Academy of Pediatrics): Highlighted as a trusted source for pediatric guidelines.Dr. Anthony Fauci: Mentioned as a prominent figure in guiding healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic. https://pediatricmeltdown.com/episodes 120 ADHD: Part 4 Executive Function 119 ADHD Part 3: Executive Function 109 ADHD Symptoms: Executive Functions Part II ADHD: Strategies for Boosting Executive Function Tweetable Quotes: "To my pediatric colleagues, we cannot be intimidated. We cannot be afraid. We have to lean into each other and have each other's backs."... Dr. Lia Gaggino on the power of solidarity "Despite the insanity of misinformation, hyperbole, and conspiracy theories, he prevailed even when he and his family were threatened and continue to be threatened."...Dr. Lia Gaggino on what Dr. Fauci had to...

    16 min
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5
out of 5
60 Ratings

About

Tune in to Pediatric Meltdown and listen to experts provide insights and strategies on a wide variety of behavioral health and mental topics anytime and anywhere that fits your busy schedule. Guests include published researches, primary care colleagues, therapists, educators, parents and even patients. Caring for children and teens with major meltdowns, depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, school struggles to name a few along with a myriad long list of behavioral and mental health concerns is daunting and most of us did not receive formal training in residency to prepare us to meet this need. Access to child psychiatry nationally is limited and in some regions just not available at all and as a result we must often provide what can only be called psychiatric care for our pediatric patients. In an effort to increase our understanding of behavioral and mental health assessment and treatment, we attend conferences, read articles, and participate in webinars. You can now add Pediatric Meltdown; the podcast dedicated to children's emotional well-being. Providing behavioral health care at its best is collaborative and connecting with others across disciplines enriches and enhances the care we provide. In the words of Maya Angelou "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better." Let's do better together!

Information

  • Creator
    Lia Gaggino
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    241
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Lia Gaggino
  • Show Website
    Pediatric Meltdown

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