#36: Childhood Behaviour: When to Worry

16/06/2025 24 min Episodio 36
#36: Childhood Behaviour: When to Worry

Listen "#36: Childhood Behaviour: When to Worry"

Episode Synopsis

When a child acts out, it’s not just about the behaviour—it’s about the big picture. In this episode of The Round Up, A/Prof Elissa Hatherly sits down with paediatrician Dr Gopakumar Hariharan to unpack the rise in behavioural referrals for children across North Queensland. From tantrums to anxiety, ADHD to autism, Dr Hariharan walks through the crucial role GPs play in early assessment, baseline testing, and guiding families toward the right support.He outlines practical strategies including the use of behavioural questionnaires, audiology and optometry referrals, and resources like Triple P and community health centres. The discussion also highlights the importance of parent education, collaborative care, and when to escalate to tertiary services.Whether you're a rural GP, a registrar, or just looking to sharpen your paediatric approach, this episode offers clear, practical advice for managing behavioural concerns in kids.Resources:Dr Gopakumar Hariharan’s Blog: Ripples From Pebbles | Dr. Gopakumar Hariharan – Welcome to my child health and Coaching blog siteTriple P – Positive Parenting Program: https://www.triplep-parenting.net.au/qld-en/triple-p/Mackay Hospital and Health Service Child, Youth and Family Health Unit (Carlyle Community Health Centre): https://www.mackay.health.qld.gov.au/services/child-youth-and-family-health/child-youth-and-family-health-carlyle-community-healthNICHQ Vanderbilt Assessment Scale – Parent Informant & Teacher Informant forms: https://nichq.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/NICHQ-Vanderbilt-Assessment-Scales.pdfConnect to Wellbeing Referral Form: https://www.neaminational.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Form_Referral_Connect_to_Wellbeing_V8.pdfEarly Childhood Development program: https://www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au/for-health-professionals/refer-your-patient/referral-forms#section__child-development-serviceTogether in Mind program: https://www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au/resources/health-services/mental-health/together-in-mindSupport for fathers: https://supportforfathers.com.au/