What conditions are treated?

Behavioural problems in children can vary in severity and therefore if you have any concerns then please do not hesitate to contact us to see if our Paediatricians are able to see and advise. Different services maybe more appropriate and our team is keen to ensure your child is seen by the right person first time. Our Paediatricians pride themselves in being able to offer a first class service and if we are not the right person to see your child we will say straight away and signpost you in the right direction.

Treatment is a loose term for the care we are able to offer. In some cases, management of the condition is more appropriate as there are no known cures for certain underlying problems. The use of private psychology may be required.

It is unlikely that a child will receive a firm diagnosis before the age of five for any of these conditions, but if your young child is displaying symptoms of behavioural disorders you should still seek medical advice as we may be able to better monitor developments and offer the right treatments earlier.

When to make an appointment?

It can be difficult to identify behavioural problems because all children are different and develop at different rates. It is important to remember that your child will also be influenced more severely by factors such as too little sleep, hunger, and stimulation than an adult will. Even up to the teenage years, children are still learning to regulate their emotions and reactions. However, if you notice anything abnormal, or if an older child or teenager brings their own concerns to you, then you should make an appointment with a behavioural paediatrician.

Some of the signs to look out for include:

• Tantrums
• Aggression or violence
• Abnormal or extreme defiance
• Hyperactivity or inability to concentrate
• Difficulties in school, both academic and social
• Difficulties with eating
• Difficulties with toilet training
• Difficulties sleeping
• Prolonged sadness or distress
• Extreme mood swings seemingly unrelated to circumstance
• Inability to concentrate or hyper-concentration on a single activity

If you have already received a diagnosis for a behavioural issue but are not happy with it or are seeking confirmation or more clarity, we are also able to assist you with a second opinion. Having a second opinion can help ease your mind as well as give you more clarity on how your child can be cared for in the best possible way.

How are conditions treated?

Depending on the conclusion your consultant comes to, a number of treatments might be prescribed and a care plan developed. Because of the diverse nature of behavioural problems, there are a lot of approaches to treatment. Your paediatrician may suggest  a psychologist, medications, or lifestyle or diet changes. 

Please be aware that medication is usually not the first route of treatment. If you want a specific treatment you will need to discuss this with your paediatrician so that you can find the best solution.

Sometimes behavioural issues are also linked to physiological problems. In these cases, our paediatricians will look at ways to treat both the physiological complaint as well as the behavioural issue. Taking this holistic approach means that there is a better chance of issues being resolved together and in a healthier way.

In some cases, there is no treatment required. Your consultant will be able to talk you through childhood development and put your mind at ease about your child’s behaviour.

Book today

Booking a consultation with our Paediatrician is straightforward, email your enquiry [email protected], call our reception team on 0333 9000 010 or enquire online.

Summerfield Healthcare’s medical reception team are specially trained to deal with all enquiries in a professional, prompt and private manner.