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Shrinking It Down: Mental Health Made Simple

Shrinking It Down: Mental Health Made Simple

By: Gene Beresin MD MA and Khadijah Booth Watkins MD MPH
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About this listen

"Shrinking It Down" highlights the fact that youth mental health is anything but simple! Child & adolescent psychiatrists Dr. Gene Beresin and Dr. Khadijah Booth Watkins help parents and other caring adults to navigate tough questions about child and teen mental health. From depression and learning disorders, to digital media and societal concerns, Shrinking It Down covers it all.


Tune in the THIRD Thursday of every month. Subscribe wherever you stream.


About Us: The Clay Center for Young Healthy Minds at Massachusetts General Hospital is a multi-media educational resource to help adults support the mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being of young people through innovative education. Visit us online at mghclaycenter.org.


This podcast is for educational purposes only. The Clay Center does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any health-related questions you may have.

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Hygiene & Healthy Living Parenting & Families Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Relationships Social Sciences
Episodes
  • ADHD Stimulant Medication Shortage
    Apr 23 2026

    ADHD stimulant medication shortages are affecting more people than ever.


    In this episode of, Shrinking it Down: Mental Health Made Simple, Gene and Khadijah take a closer look at the ongoing shortage of ADHD stimulant medications and the real impact it is having on children and adults. Joined by Dr. Tony Rostain, they explore the biopsychosocial approach to how ADHD is treated and why medications like Adderall and Ritalin remain so important. They explain what is driving the shortage, from supply chain issues to growing demand, and share practical ways for parents and caregivers to help their teens cope. Listen now to feel more informed, prepared, and supported.


    Media List
    • Anthony L. Rostain, MD, MA (Cooper University)
    • Manufacturing Supply Chains and Imports in the ADHD Drug Shortage (JAMA Network)
    • ADHD Medication Shortage Continues as the School Year Begins (The New York Times)
    • The Rolling Stones - You Can’t Always Get What You Want (YouTube)

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    39 mins
  • Talking with Your Kids about the War in Iran
    Mar 19 2026

    When the world feels uncertain and headlines hit close to home, how can parents help their children feel safe?


    In this episode, of Shrinking it Down: Mental Health Made Simple, Gene and Khadijah explore how families can support children during times of political conflict, such as the current War in Iran. They break down how children and teens at different developmental stages process stress, from preschoolers who may regress to teens grappling with more complex emotions and questions. Tune in for advice and real-life strategies for supporting kids through uncertainty.


    Media List
    • Helping Kids of All Ages in the Face of Terrorism or War (MGH Clay Center)
    • Expert tips on how to talk to teens about war in Iran (WCVB)
    • Breaking News and Kids (MGH Clay Center)
    • Self-Care Resources - Videos, Toolkit, More (MGH Clay Center)


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    34 mins
  • Teen Romance in the Digital Era
    Feb 19 2026

    In this Valetine's Day special of Shrinking it Down, Gene and Khadijah explore how teen romance is being reshaped in the digital age. From texting and social media to AI chatbots, they unpack the ways technology is transforming how teens connect, communicate, and even break up. While some online spaces can create a sense of closeness and constant connection, they also bring new challenges such as comparison culture, ghosting, and difficulty navigating face-to-face relationships.

    Tune in for practical guidance on the importance of modeling healthy relationships, staying informed about their children's digital worlds, and when to worry about a breakup.

    Media List
    • Exploring the World of AI Therapy (MGH Clay Center)
    • How Teens Incorporate Online Platforms and Digital Devices Into Their Romantic Relationships (Pew Research Center)
    • Hit Send, No Wait: The Dangers Of A Hyper-Personal Online Life (MGH Clay Center)
    • Social Media & Body Image (Shrinking it Down)
    • Teens, Technology and Romantic Relationship (Pew Research Center)
    • The Power of Peer Support (Shrinking it Down)
    • Conflict Resolution Course (MGH Clay Center)
    • Ways to Help Your Lonely Teenager (MGH Clay Center)

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    38 mins
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