The increasing prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in children is a growing concern.  While it may not always make headlines, gastrointestinal (GI) issues such as Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis are on the rise. These incurable and chronic conditions, now have a dedicated, holistic approach to treatment at a newly expanded IBD clinic at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead (CHW).  

Thanks to recent philanthropic funding, the IBD clinic has welcomed a clinical psychologist, dietitian, pharmacist and additional clinical nurse specialist to the team over the past year. Each of these new roles helps to support the physical and emotional challenges faced by children living with IBD.  

“For kids living with gastrointestinal disorders, such as IBD, managing the complex symptoms is part of their daily life and this can cause all sorts of side effects, including impacts on growth, mental health, schooling and physical mobility.  

“Our team is very passionate about working together to meet our patients’ immediate physical and health needs and to also provide them with holistic care,” says Dr Shoma Dutt, Staff Specialist in Gastroenterology at CHW.  

Understanding IBD in children 

IBD is a lifelong condition that affects the GI tract – a tube where food enters and leaves the body. It can also impact major organs of the digestive system such as the liver.  

IBD affects how the body absorbs the nutrients needed to grow healthy and strong, and kids living with these conditions often have chronic pain, low energy levels and difficulty controlling bowel movements, as well as nutritional and psychological problems.  

Better access and outcomes for children with IBD 

The investment to expand the IBD clinic team has made the Gastroenterology Department at CHW a ‘one-stop shop’ for patients, reducing the need for children and families to travel to multiple departments to get the care and support they need.  

Families now benefit from easier access to essential nursing support and advice through the clinic helpline. Access to complex new medications has also been simplified with the support of the team’s pharmacist. Christine Au Yeung, Clinical Psychologist at the IBD clinic, has also been working in the team since early 2024. 

Supporting mental health in children with IBD 

For many children, GI conditions often impact mental health and confidence. At CHW, every child who comes into the clinic is screened for psychological issues as part of their care. 

“Unless a parent flags a problem, or doctors notice a mental health issue, it can easily go unnoticed. Our simple survey, completed every time a patient comes into the clinic, shines a light on any issues and it can quickly let us know if there are any mental health concerns,” says Christine.  

This proactive approach ensures timely mental health support is provided.  With these regular surveys, various mental health services and interventions can be introduced as needed. These services range from providing helpful reading materials and mental health resources to children and their families, to having one-on-one counselling sessions with Christine.  

“A little intervention can go a long way. The need is there, and you can see the impact as soon as a focus is given to a patient's mental health. Even some simple mental health support to IBD patients can get them back on track, back to school and enjoying life. The support can be immediate and life-changing.”  

Collaborative care for children with IBD 

Dr Shoma Dutt reinforces the importance of having a multidisciplinary team approach focusing on the holistic health of the clinic’s patients.  

“Christine is able to provide an immediate response, which has been transformative for the clinic. This is the case for all of the new roles – each of them has been able to provide immediate impact. Their work is vital to our clinic and for the support of the children we help.” 

This multidisciplinary approach ensures every child is treated as a whole person – not just for their symptoms, but for their overall health, development and wellbeing – giving them the best chance at a brighter, healthier future.