Episode #10 - Mental Health Struggles of Chronically Ill Children

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, chronic illnesses in children can affect the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of young patients. It also takes a serious toll on parents and siblings, leading to strained familial relationships that add yet another layer of stress. Depression and anxiety are common co-morbid illnesses in children with chronic health concerns.

Additionally, very often with a chronic or potentially terminal illness, families and medical staff are so understandably focused on the physical health of the child that the emotional, developmental and psychological impacts of the illness and treatment are overlooked.

In today’s episode, Patricia speaks with Dr. Lauren Ford, a licensed pediatric psychologist in The Guidance Center’s Whole Child program. The Whole Child is a program that places Guidance Center pediatric psychologists in Miller Children’s and Women’s Hospital, to provide consultation and mental health support to children and families with chronic illness. In many cases, therapists are able to support the child when they are inpatient in the hospital as well as between hospital visits.

In My Backyard is brought to you by The Guidance Center, a children’s mental health agency in Long Beach, CA. In My Backyard is produced by Tricia Costales and Matthew Murray. Thank you to Jay Vincent B for original music. All other music licensed through SoundStripe. Thank you to our listeners and supporters.

Please visit tgclb.org or text HOPE to 562-262-5689 to make a one-time donation or join our Hope and Healing Club to become a monthly donor today. And subscribe to In My Backyard on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts