88 - Understanding and navigating anxiety with Dr Billy Garvey, developmental paediatrician

Boob to Food - The Podcast

Sadly more and more children are exhibiting signs of anxiety at an early age. But how can parents discern between normal childhood fears and more serious anxiety issues? And what steps can they take to support their child through these challenging emotions? This week we welcome back our honorary co-host Dr. Billy Garvey, a renowned developmental paediatrician, to explore a topic that weighs heavily on many parents' hearts—childhood anxiety.

Billy is a developmental paediatrician with nearly 20 years experience working with children in a number of settings. He is also the author of his new book Ten things I wish you knew about your child's mental health and the co-founder and co-host of an excellent podcast - Pop Culture Parenting, which aims support child development and wellbeing using evidence in a meaningful, fun and realistic way.

In this podcast we chat to Billy about:

• Some common signs of anxiety in young children that parents might overlook
• How parents differentiate between normal childhood fears and more serious anxiety issues
• Common triggers of anxiety and the most common age group this occurs in
• When we should consider seeking professional help for our child's anxiety (or our own!)
• Lifestyle changes that can significantly reduce anxiety in children
• How parents can manage their own anxiety, and whether having an anxious parent predisposes a child to having anxiety as well
• What to do if you're feeling overwhelmed by your child's anxiety
• ... and so much more!

This episode is a must-listen for any parent navigating the often turbulent waters of childhood anxiety. Billy's advice offers both reassurance and practical steps to help families support their children's mental well-being. Whether you're noticing early signs of anxiety in your child or just want to be prepared, this episode will equip you with the knowledge and tools to handle anxiety with confidence and compassion.

You can connect with Billy on Instagram as well as on his podcast

You can also check out his book HERE (and we both highly recommend the audiobook version!)

Today's episode was brought to you by Mini + Me. Hydramama is an electrolyte drink that's designed to support you and your family in pregnancy, postpartum or even if you are a tired mum looking for a pick me up. Developed by a HG sufferer, Keira Rumble, Hydramama contains zero sugar and it is all natural. There are now 6 delicious flavours to choose from. They have just launched 2 brand new flavours - Cola and Lemonade. Hydramama comes in convenient single serve sachets, which are great for on the run, pram walks, park adventures, and even travelling.

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Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate Holm
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