Child Mental Health Disorders Treated by a Psychiatrist

Your psychiatrist can explain the different types of mental health disorders in children. Being familiar with these disorders can help familiarize you with what your child may be experiencing. Knowing what each mental disorder is can help you identify which one your child may have. If you want to know more about the child mental health disorders that a psychiatrist can treat, here are the details.

Common mental disorders in children

Psychiatric conditions in children are often described as developmental disruptions or delays. These disruptions block the normal functioning of the mind. Mental health problems can be stressful for children. Each one can interrupt their ability to perform well in any situation. Below are the common mental disorders in kids:

• ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a condition in which the child has impulsive behaviors, as well as hyperactivity and difficulty with attention. The child may also experience a combination of these symptoms.
• Schizophrenia is a mental disorder in which the mind of the person loses connection with reality. This condition often appears in the late teens up to the 20s. The individual experiences delusions and hallucinations. There are also chaotic behaviors and thoughts.
• Anxiety disorders in kids involve having constant worries and fears that disrupt the child’s ability to socialize and participate in activities.
• Eating disorders are linked to the child’s thinking of what the ideal body type is. The child keeps thinking about weight loss and weight in a disordered way. This condition can result in social and emotional dysfunction. It may also lead to life-threatening physical problems.
• ASD (autism spectrum disorder) starts in early childhood, before three years of age. The child finds it challenging to interact and communicate with other people.
• PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) involves experiencing anxiety and distress as a result of a traumatic event.
• Depression is a persistent feeling of sadness. The child also loses interest in any activity. This disorder can interrupt the child’s ability to interact and function.
• Bipolar disorder is a condition that results in extreme mood swings of sadness and happiness. These may result in risky and dangerous behaviors.

The warning signs

The psychiatrist can tell the parent to watch out for warning signs. The parent can also share any noticeable behaviors that the child may be showing. Knowing the warning signs can signal the parent to seek psychiatric help. Below are the signs of mental illness in children:

• Talks about death or self-harm
• Sudden weight loss
• Avoids social interactions
• Persistent sadness that lasts for at least weeks
• Has difficulty sleeping
• Avoids or cuts classes
• Intense irritability
• Drastic personality changes
• Constant stomachaches and headaches
• Out-of-control behavior
• Difficulty focusing
• Changes in academic conduct

Diagnosing the mental illness

The psychiatrist will base the diagnosis on the child’s signs and symptoms. There will be a full physical exam first to rule out any possible physical cause of the signs and symptoms. Asking the parents about the child’s mental health history can reveal possible inherited disorders. Checking the child’s academic history is also important. The teachers and parents can provide the necessary information. The psychiatrist will also observe and talk to the child.