

'Bad behaviour' or just misunderstood? What to know about kids' mental health
Feb 15, 2025
Dr. Billy Garvey, a developmental pediatrician from Melbourne, specializes in children's behavioral issues and is also the author of "10 Things I Wish You Knew About Your Child's Mental Health." He discusses why kids often get labeled as 'bad' and dives into the complexities of attachment and emotional difficulties. Dr. Garvey emphasizes the importance of secure relationships and effective parent-child communication. He also shares strategies for fostering emotional resilience and supporting caregivers in understanding their children's mental health challenges.
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Billy's Story
- Dr. Billy Garvey, a developmental pediatrician, was a struggling kid from a disadvantaged background.
- Despite facing hardship and being expelled from school, he found his calling working with children.
Developmental Pediatrics
- Emotional and behavioral difficulties are the primary reason children visit developmental pediatricians.
- These specialists consider a child's entire developmental history, not just specific diagnoses.
Attachment Matters
- A child's mental health foundation starts with attachment, or how safe and loved they feel.
- Insecure attachment can stem from inconsistent care or parental mental health struggles.