Child and adolescent psychiatry is a subspecialty of psychiatry that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental disorders in children and teenagers. This field addresses a range of issues including developmental disorders, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Because childhood and adolescence are critical periods for brain development and emotional growth, mental health interventions during these stages can profoundly impact lifelong well-being. Treatment approaches are often family-centered and multidisciplinary, involving child psychologists, pediatricians, educators, and social workers. Psychopharmacology may be used cautiously, alongside psychotherapies tailored to developmental levels.

Early recognition and intervention can prevent the progression of disorders into adulthood. Child and adolescent psychiatrists also play a crucial role in supporting parents and caregivers, advocating for school-based interventions, and shaping child-focused mental health policies to create environments conducive to healthy emotional and cognitive development.