Every Kid Needs a Team with Dr. Ben Maxwell

Every Kid Needs a Team

Anxiety and depression in kids are on the rise—but supporting children’s mental health isn’t only about treating crises. It’s also about creating the relationships, belonging, and positive experiences that help kids thrive.

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Ben Maxwell, Chief of Psychiatry at Rady Children’s Hospital, about what’s shaping young people’s mental health and where families and communities can make a difference.

Dr. Maxwell shares the “five F’s” influencing childhood and explains why early support, trusted adults, meaningful activities, and opportunities for independent play matter. He also discusses how partnerships between schools and health systems can help children access care sooner, and why parents don’t have to be perfect to make a lasting difference.

His central message is both simple and hopeful: every kid needs a team. Whether that team comes from friends, family, school, sports, performing arts, or another community, having people in their corner can help children build resilience and a stronger foundation for the future.