Psychological Problems in Children

For the better part of history, psychological disorders were presumed to be a province of the adult mind. However, according to the Mental Health Channel, since the 1960s, research has shown that children are vulnerable to the same psychological problems as adults. In fact, according to the MHC, studies indicate that one in every five American children and adolescents may have a psychological disorder. Furthermore, statistics suggest that two-thirds of these young people are probably not receiving the help they need. Recognizing the symptoms and finding qualified help are the first two vitally important steps in putting your child on the road to a healthy, happy future.

Anxiety Disorders

According to the National Mental Health Information Center (NMHIC), anxiety disorders are one of the most common childhood psychological problems, affecting 13 out of every 100 children and adolescents. Different types of anxiety disorders can occur alone or comorbid with each other. Generalized anxiety is characterized by chronic, unrealistic worry that is not based on any real experience. Panic disorder is fear that is manifested in uncontrollable panic attacks (hyperventilation). Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurs in children who have been traumatized by violence, physical or sexual abuse, or have lived through a war or natural disaster. It is characterized by flashbacks to the distressing event that typically occur without warning. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) causes children to become trapped in repeated behaviors and thoughts, such as hand-washing or counting.

Depression

Depression is a debilitating psychological illness characterized by chronic, oppressive sadness that does not subside normally. According to the MHC, studies on children between six and 12 years of age suggest that 10 percent suffer from clinical depression. As in adults, depression in children is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, biological and environment factors. However, because children cannot express themselves like adults, symptoms of depression are typically manifested differently. Signs of childhood depression include sleep or appetite disturbance, drop in school performance, nervousness or hyperactivity, slowed physical movement or speech, muteness, explosive anger, irritability, excessive crying, unexplained fears, aggression, antisocial behavior, isolation or unsubstantiated physical pain.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder, also called manic depression, is a chronic psychological illness characterized by extreme mood swings from high (hyperactivity, excessive talking, explosive temper, need for little sleep, risky behavior) to low (sadness, physical pain, excessive sleeping, change in appetite, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, low energy, thoughts of death). Bipolar disorder is caused by a combination of genetic, neurological and environmental factors. In addition, children with an anxiety disorder are at higher risk for developing bipolar disorder. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), when bipolar disorder is found in children it is often more severe and difficult to manage than it is in teenagers and adults, as their moods may be mixed and may change quite rapidly, sometimes several times within a single day.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD compromises a child's ability to learn, maintain concentration and sustain normal activity levels. According to Mental Health America, it is the most common psychological disorder found in young people, affecting 5 to 10 percent of American children. Although ADHD is believed to develop before age seven, it is typically diagnosed in children between eight and 10 years of age and is 10 times more prevalent in boys than girls. Signs of ADHD include an inability to listen or complete tasks, moving rapidly from one activity to another, being disruptive in school, having difficulty sharing or taking turns, being in constant motion, running and climbing, restlessness, restless sleep and acting without thinking.

Conduct Disorder

The Department of Health and Human Services estimates that as many as one in every 10 children and adolescents have conduct disorder. It is more common in boys than girls and occurs more often in urban settings than rural areas. According to the NMHIC, children with conduct disorder, also known as disruptive behavior disorder, have little or no regard for other people or societal rules. Signs include aggression, lying, stealing, destructive behavior, truancy, precocious sexual activity and substance abuse. Studies have shown that children at risk for conduct disorder have experienced neglect, poverty, institutionalization, separation from parents, maternal rejection, parental mental illness or marital discord, abuse or violence.

Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD)

According to Healthy Place, pervasive developmental disorders are considered the most severe childhood psychological disorders, affecting 10 to 15 of every 10,000 children. PDDs, also called autism spectrum disorders, include autism, Asperger syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder and Rett syndrome. These illnesses compromise intellectual skills, normal reactions to sounds, sights and smells, and the ability to comprehend language or to speak coherently, if at all. Signs of a PDD, which typically become evident before three years of age, include unusual patterns of sleeping, eating or drinking, peculiar postures or movements, difficulty interacting with others, lack of eye contact, lack of curiosity or interest in environment, and repetitive play behavior.

Finding Help

According to the NMHIC, the outlook for children with psychological disorders is, in most cases, quite positive. With early and proper treatment and diligent management, psychologically ill children can go on to live healthy, productive lives. If you suspect that your child suffers from a psychological disorder, don't wait for it to resolve itself. The most important thing that you may ever do for your child is to find the right type of professional help. A good place to start is with your pediatrician, who should be able to refer you and your child to a qualified mental health practitioner.

References

• National Institute of Mental Health
• National Mental Health Information Center
• Mental Health America

Resources

• Mentalhelp.net
• Healthy Place