Mental Disorders in Children

Allison Zellhuber

Mental Illnesses in Children

Childhood mental illness occurs in about 20% of US children during a given yearAlmost 5 million children have some type of serious mental illness that interferes significantly with daily life

ADHD

ADHD is a problem with inattentiveness, over activity, impulsivity or a combination of theseADHD is the most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorder of childhood3-5% of school-aged children are affected and it is diagnosed more often in boys than girlsADHD is treated with medication and behavior therapy

Signs of ADHD

Fails to give close attention to detailsHas difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or playDoes not seem to listen when spoken to directlyHas difficulty organizing tasks and activitiesIs easily distractedIs often forgetful in daily activities

Oppositional Defiant Disorder

A recurrent or persistent pattern of negative, defiant or even hostile behavior directed at authority figures.Treatment is individual psychotherapy combined with family or caretaker therapy and occasionally medication may be given to reduce irritability.The prevalence of ODD is about 15% in children and adolescents

Symptoms of ODD

Lose their temper easily and repeatedlyArgue with adultsDefy adultsRefuse to obey rulesDeliberately annoy peopleBlame others for their own mistakes or misbehaviorBe easily annoyed and angeredBe spiteful or vindictive

Mood Disorders

Mood disorders range from simple sadness to major manic depression.There are many types of mood disorders – Dysthymia which is mild depression and Major Depression. Children and teens who have a family history are more likely than others to experience depression

Symptoms of Mood Disorders

Persistent sadnessIrritabilityLoss of interest in activities once enjoyedSignificant change in appetite or body weightAbnormal sleep patternsLoss of energyFeelings of worthlessnessDifficulty concentratingRecurrent thoughts of death or suicide