What to Consider when Medicating Children with Doctors Pilar Trelles and Robert Jaffe

In this episode of the Helping Families Be Happy Podcast, host Christopher Robbins is joined by Dr. Pilar Trelles and Dr. Robert Jaffe to discuss their book, "A Parent's Guide to Starting Psychiatric Medications for Kids: Start Low and Go Slow When Medicating Children." The episode delves into the complexities of pediatric psychiatric medication, addressing common questions and misconceptions that parents might have. Both experts emphasize the importance of having a strong relationship with a psychiatrist and approach psychiatric medication as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan for mental health conditions in children. They stress a methodical approach to medication, aptly summarized by their book's title, "Start Low and Go Slow."

Episode Highlights

00:00:10 : Introduction of the Helping Families Be Happy Podcast and its host, Christopher Robbins.

00:01:40 : Introduction of guests, Dr. Pilar Trelles and Dr. Robert Jaffe, and their credentials.

00:02:00 : Discussion about the catalyst for writing the book concerning medicating children.

00:02:41 : Acknowledgment of the stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental health medication for children.

00:03:42 : Explanation of the role psychiatric medications can play in treatment and improving children's life trajectories.

00:05:35 : Emphasis on the importance of a good relationship with a psychiatrist.

00:06:30 : Overview of what the book covers, including different issues related to medicating children.

00:08:31 : Addressing myths versus facts regarding psychiatric medications for children.

00:09:30 : Discussion on a thoughtful approach to medication alongside therapy and good doctor

relationships.

00:11:39 : The importance of the comprehensive decision-making process in pediatric medication.

00:13:15 : Final thoughts from Dr. Jaffe and Dr.Trelles on the key takeaway messages for parents.

00:16:23 : Conclusion of the episode with insightful reflections from both the authors.

Key Takeaways

• Establish a strong relationship with a child's psychiatrist to ensure well-informed treatment plans.


• Mental health medication for children should be considered carefully and is not always required as the sole solution.


• The book "A Parent's Guide to Starting Psychiatric Medications for Kids: Start Low and Go Slow When Medicating Children." aims to demystify psychiatric medication, guiding parents to make informed decisions.


• Psychoeducation for parents can lead to better advocacy and more effective outcomes for children in mental health treatment.

Tweetable Quotes

• "Start low and go slow; that's our mantra for medicating kids responsibly." - Dr. Robert Jaffe & Dr. Pilar Trelles


• "Medications, if prescribed wisely, can be life-changing for children with psychiatric conditions." - Dr. Pilar Trelles


• "Parents are their children's experts; we're here to provide knowledge and support." - Dr. Robert Jaffe