Pilot project of psychological services integrated into a pediatric epilepsy clinic: Psychology Adding Value -...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Neurology
• Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
• Developmental Psychology

Background:

• Children and young people with epilepsy (CYPwE) are at higher risk for social, emotional, behavioral, and learning difficulties.
• These challenges, if unaddressed early, can negatively impact quality of life and long-term psychosocial development.
• Early identification and intervention are crucial for mitigating these adverse effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a screening protocol and early intervention pathway for mental health difficulties in CYPwE.
• To address the vulnerability of CYPwE to psychosocial challenges.
• To improve long-term psychosocial outcomes for this population.

Main Methods:

• The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was administered to CYPwE and their parents.
• A traffic light system was implemented to categorize levels of concern.
• A pathway for stepped early intervention (PAVES) was established based on screening results.

Main Results:

• 53% of screened CYPwE exhibited previously unidentified elevated mental health difficulties.
• These individuals were offered access to appropriate early intervention services.
• Initial feedback indicated high feasibility and acceptability of the PAVES pathway among young people, parents, and clinicians.

Conclusions:

• The PAVES approach facilitates early identification and intervention for mental health difficulties in CYPwE.
• This early intervention has the potential to enhance long-term psychosocial outcomes.
• The PAVES model may be adaptable to other pediatric populations in future research.