Child and Adolescent Mental Health (up to 18 years)
What can we help you with?
Child and adolescent mental health (CAMH) refers to the social, emotional, and psychological well-being young people. Since about half of adult mental health disorders begin before age 14, early detection and treatment are crucial.
Common Mental Health Conditions
Children and adolescent may be affected by various mental health conditions, including:
- Anxiety Disorders: These are defined by persistent and excessive fears or worries that interfere with daily functioning.
- Depression and Mood Disorders: Characterized by ongoing feelings of sadness, irritability, or a diminished interest in usual activities lasting two weeks or longer.
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Manifested through challenges with maintaining attention, controlling impulses, and managing hyperactivity.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition affecting communication, social interaction, and perception. The "spectrum" highlights variability in symptoms and support needs. Autism is not an illness or disease but reflects neurodivergent development. With proper support, autistic individuals can lead independent, fulfilling lives.
- Eating Disorders: Serious concerns involving unhealthy attitudes or behaviors related to body image, eating patterns, and weight management.
- Behavioural Disorders: Such as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder (CD), which present as disruptive or noncompliant behaviours
Warning Signs
Mood swings can be common and normal, but ongoing or intense changes may signal a problem. Watch for:
- Lasting sadness, worry, or irritability (2+ weeks)
- Sleep or appetite changes
- Loss of interest in activities
- Social withdrawal or trouble making friends
- Unexplained headaches or stomach aches
- Self-harm or talk of suicide (seek immediate help)
Where to Get Help (Australia)
If you’re worried about a child’s mental health, start by consulting a local doctor (GP) or school counsellor.
For immediate help in Australia:
- Kids Helpline: Free 24/7 counselling for ages 5–25. Call 1800 55 1800.
- Headspace: Mental health support for ages 12–25. Call 1800 650 890.
- Beyond Blue: Depression and anxiety resources, plus free counselling. Call 1300 22 4636.
- Lifeline: 24-hour crisis and suicide prevention. Call 13 11 14.
- CAMHS: Specialist assessment and care for moderate to severe issues (up to age 18/25, varies by region).
In emergencies or immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000).
How does it work?
At “All Psychiatry” our team of Australian- certified mental health clinicians provides expert care tailored to your needs.
We have made it simple and efficient – just follow the steps below to get started
1
GP Referral
To get started, please obtain a referral from your GP addressed to “All Psychiatry” and include as much information as possible.
It helps to include information about your symptoms, history and any previous treatment.
2
Send or Upload GP referral
You can upload your referral securely on our website, or ask your GP to fax it to 03 8080 6484 or email it to admin@allpsychiatry.com.au
3
We will contact you to book an appointment
Once our friendly admin team receives your referral, it will be promptly reviewed to match you with the specialist best suited to your needs. Someone from our admin team will contact you to arrange your appointment
Meet Our Team
Frequently Asked Questions
What can we expect from our intial Telehealth appointment with Dr. Abdulghani M Usmanr?
The initial appointment with Dr. Abdulghani M Usman will comprise of getting history of current difficulties, a development history from parent/carer and review of any previous assessments done by psychologists or school.
Subsequent to the first appointment, Dr. Abdulghani M Usman will liaise with the school/university to get more information which will form a part of his comprehensive assessment. There will be ongoing liaison with your GP to organise any further investigations needed.
Medications may be commenced at any stage depending on history and assessment.
Does a parent/carer need to attend the appointment?
Yes, a parent/carer needs to be present for the initial appointment to be able to provide a development or join for 15 mins at the end. It is ideal for them to attend a part or full appointment subsequently too for feedback regarding medications.
Does my child need to be present at all appointments?
Yes the patient (child/teenager) needs to be present at all appointments for the family to be able to claim Medicare rebates. Teenagers can join in using the link from school in case missing school is a concern.