Every child experiences problems as he or she goes through the early years. But for many children, and adults as well, there are times when certain feelings interfere with what could be, for the most part, a lot of fun.
Families grow concerned when a child shows certain tendencies or behaviors. But there are several very specific conditions that parents and other family members need to become familiar with, as they consider the subject of psychiatry for the young among us.
Under the banner of psychiatry (child and adolescent) are such recognized issues as attention deficit disorder, one of the more well-known disabilities as far as the general public is concerned. The number of children who may have ADHD is in the millions. Depression is estimated to affect about 10 percent of all children and adolescents. Young people may also be developing eating disorders, the most common of which are anorexia and bulimia. There are many others.
Taken to the extreme, serious issues in childhood can lead to suicide. Thousands of deaths each year are attributable to suicide among those in their teens and early 20s.
Important Sources of Information
Professional organizations such as the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) offer a wide range of helpful information called Facts for Families. Subject matter includes “Psychiatric Medicine for Children and Adolescents” (in three parts) and “When to Seek Help for Your Child.” Other topics and areas of interest are available.
Unfortunately, some families feel they can handle their problems on their own, when in reality, there is a real need for professional guidance in the face of serious childhood problems.
Experts in this field are physicians with a definite specialty. These doctors focus on disorders of thinking, feeling, and behavior in a somewhat narrower field of children and adolescents. Working through these serious issues involves more people than the doctor and the patient. Families play an enormous part in providing information the doctor needs.
Sometimes, a family member will describe and explain another’s feelings and behavior in a way that helps the psychiatrist understand the larger picture. Throughout the process, this specialist also brings in a range of medical information, allowing the doctor to provide a comprehensive plan.
Additional Information
Many families may not think about finding a medical professional in the field of psychiatry (child and adolescent). But family physicians, school counselors, local hospitals, and medical centers may be able to steer a family in the right direction.
Larger employers may have someone on staff to help with family matters. The previously mentioned AACAP and the American Psychiatric Association may also be great resources. Don’t hesitate. If you have questions, contact one of these sources as soon as possible.
