ADHD
This disorder is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. It makes functioning in structured settings such as school much more difficult for children. Children may develop low self esteem because teachers repeatedly attempt to redirect and keep them on task. ADHD may also affect a child’s ability to make friends and maintain friendships because they have difficulty waiting their turn and controlling their impulses. Adults also suffer with ADHD and have difficulty with academic and occupational performance and adult relationships.
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Depression
Depression encompasses a wide variety of disorders from an adjustment disorder with depressed mood, to severe recurrent major depression. Symptoms include a depressed, irritable, or angry mood, changes in sleep, energy, appetite, and or concentration. Hopelessness, suicidal thoughts, and or decreased interest in activities previously found pleasurable are also symptoms of depression. Untreated parental depression has a significant impact on children, as untreated depression in children and adolescents affects members of the family.
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Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Symptoms of PTSD may develop after an individual experiences a traumatic event. Traumas may be chronic as in a chronically abusive family member, or they may be an isolated event such as a natural disaster, war or rape. Children have different perspectives on life events and may be traumatized by fairly common life situations including divorce, life threatening medical illness of the child or a family member. This disorder is characterized by re-experiencing in the form of nightmares, recurrent memories and or flashbacks. Individuals develop avoidant behaviors toward triggers of these memories and my develop a hyperaroused state. Hyperarousal may be thought of as a heightened sensitivity. They may have problems with concentration, anger outbursts, and or feelings that others are “out to get them”. Individuals may startle easily, and have chronic sleep problems. Children may have difficulty articulating traumatic events, however they often exhibit disorganized, anxious behaviors or may become aggressive.
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For more information on other important disorders please follow these links:
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Separation anxiety disorder
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder(OCD)
- Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
- Tourettes Syndrome
- Eating disorders
Anorexia Nervosa
Bulimia Nervosa - Substance dependency