Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in Dubai – Supporting Emotional and Behavioural Development

Dubai’s multicultural environment and high academic standards offer children and adolescents unique opportunities — but also distinct emotional and behavioural challenges. In areas such as Dubai Media City, Knowledge Village, Barsha Heights, Dubai Marina, JLT, JBR, and Palm Jumeirah, families juggle busy careers, academic expectations, and social transitions. At Retrieve Mind Poly Clinic, Consultant Child Psychiatrist in Dubai Dr. Aju Abraham and his team provide compassionate, evidence-based child and adolescent psychiatry in Dubai to support the mental well-being and healthy development of young people across the city.

Understanding Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in Dubai

Child and adolescent psychiatry focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing emotional and behavioural disorders that arise during development. These can include mood changes, attention difficulties, anxiety, irritability, or social withdrawal. Unlike adults, children often express distress through behaviour — such as tantrums, school avoidance, or poor concentration — rather than verbalizing their emotions.

Our child and adolescent psychiatry services in Dubai aim to identify these issues early and provide tailored support for lasting emotional growth.

A young girl enthusiastically engages in a playful conversation with a child psychologist during a session, surrounded by a cozy and colorful room.

Common Emotional and Behavioural Concerns

In Dubai’s fast-paced society, children and adolescents may experience heightened pressure to perform academically, socially, and personally. At Retrieve Mind Poly Clinic, we commonly see young patients presenting with:

• Anxiety and excessive worry

• Low mood or loss of motivation

• Sleep disturbance or irritability

• Academic difficulties and attention problems

• Screen addiction or social withdrawal

• Behavioural challenges at home or school

Among student populations in schools around Knowledge Village — including GEMS Wellington, Dubai College, Dubai International Academy, Regent International School, and the American School of Dubai — such stress-related concerns can sometimes be observed as students adapt to competitive learning environments and high parental expectations.

High-Performing Students and Academic Pressure

Academic excellence is highly valued in Dubai, and while this drives achievement, it can also lead to stress and burnout among students. High-performing adolescents often struggle with perfectionism, fear of failure, or excessive self-criticism. These issues can manifest as insomnia, anxiety, irritability, or avoidance of studies. Retrieve Mind Poly Clinic provides specialized support for students who experience exam-related stress, concentration difficulties, or emotional exhaustion associated with academic competition.

ADHD and Emotional Regulation in Adolescents

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions seen in school-age children and teenagers. Symptoms such as distractibility, impulsivity, and restlessness can impact academic performance and relationships. Emotional regulation difficulties — such as frustration, anger outbursts, or sensitivity to criticism — are often part of the picture. At Retrieve Mind Poly Clinic, evaluation for ADHD includes a detailed developmental history, teacher input, and psychological assessment. Treatment may involve behavioural strategies, family guidance, and medication when clinically indicated, ensuring holistic care for both the child and family.

Parental and Family Challenges

Raising children in a multicultural city like Dubai can be rewarding yet demanding. Dual-career parents often face limited time for family interaction, while relocation and frequent travel may disrupt routines and emotional security. Conflicts between modern and traditional parenting approaches are also common. Retrieve Mind Poly Clinic offers family counselling to improve communication, strengthen emotional bonds, and align parenting strategies.

How Retrieve Mind Poly Clinic Supports Children and Teens

Under the guidance of Dr. Aju Abraham, Retrieve Mind Poly Clinic provides an integrated model of care that combines psychiatric assessment, psychotherapy, and collaboration with parents and schools. Each child’s treatment plan is tailored to their developmental stage, emotional needs, and social context.

Services include:

• Comprehensive psychiatric assessment

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and emotional regulation

• Parent counselling and behaviour management training

• Medication management when appropriate

• Coordination with teachers and school counsellors to support classroom functioning

The Role of Early Identification and Intervention

Early identification of emotional or behavioural difficulties can prevent escalation and promote resilience. When children receive timely support, they develop stronger coping skills, better academic performance, and healthier peer relationships. Parents are encouraged to seek professional advice if they notice persistent sadness, social withdrawal, declining grades, or sudden changes in behaviour.

About Dr. Aju Abraham

Dr. Aju Abraham, Consultant Psychiatrist and Medical Director of Retrieve Mind Poly Clinic, has over 25 years of international experience, including extensive work in child and adolescent psychiatry within the UK NHS and the Middle East. His approach integrates medical expertise with empathy, empowering young patients and their families to navigate emotional challenges effectively and confidently.

Location and Accessibility

Retrieve Mind Poly Clinic is located in Dubai Media City, close to Knowledge Village and Barsha Heights, and easily accessible from Dubai Marina, JLT, JBR, and Palm Jumeirah. The clinic provides a welcoming, child-friendly environment designed to ensure privacy, comfort, and professional care for children, adolescents, and families.

Seek Professional Help Today

👉 Call or WhatsApp: +971 50 206 6563 / +971 43 99 6919

 📍 Location: 1914, 19th Floor, Concord Tower, Al Burooj Street, Al Sufouh 2, Dubai Media City, near Palm Jumeirah Tram Station

Schedule an Appointment Today!

Written by: Dr. Aju Abraham, MBBS (University of Kerala, India), MRCPSYCH (The Royal College of Psychiatrists, UK), Certificate of Completion Of Specialist Training (The Specialist Training Authority of the Medical Royal Colleges, UK), Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Therapy ( University of Durham, UK) Consultant Psychiatrist, Medical Director, Retrieve Mind Poly Clinic (25+ years experience, UK NHS & Middle East)

About the Author

Dr. Aju Abraham is a Consultant Psychiatrist and the Medical Director of Retrieve Mind Poly Clinic, Dubai Media City. He has over 25 years of clinical experience in psychiatry, spanning the UK National Health Service (NHS), Qatar, and the UAE.

His expertise covers adult psychiatry, mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, relationship difficulties, and workplace stress.

Dr. Abraham’s approach integrates evidence-based medicine with a compassionate understanding of modern urban lifestyles. He regularly contributes to mental health awareness across educational and corporate settings in Dubai and Doha.