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 Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2010 7:56 am
Because I keep finding new pamphlets to add, and I don't want to overcrowd the existing stickies, here's a new one. Please note: I did consider putting the pamphlets about suicide in the existing suicide information sticky. However in the end, I decided to keep that one more focused on suicide prevention, with the after-effects being posted in this sticky instead (since both focus on mental health issues surrounding people post-suicide). ~ Table of Contents:- Post 1: Introduction <--- You are here- Post 2: What Causes Psychosis [leaflet] - Post 3: Early Intervention for Psychosis [leaflet] - Post 4: Mental Illness in the Family [pamphlet] - Post 5: Schizophrenia: A Guide for the First Nations Community [pamphlet] - Post 6: Reserved - Post 7: Reserved - Post 8: Children and Depression [pamphlet] - Post 9: Mood Problems in Children and Adolescents [pamphlet] - Post 10: Resources - Book List for Anxiety, Behaviour Problems, Mood Problems & Depression [leaflets] - Post 11: Grief After Suicide [pamphlet] - Post 12: Reflections on Youth Suicide [pamphlet] - Post 13: Anxiety Problems in Children and Adolescents [pamphlet] - Post 14: Separation and Divorce [pamphlet] - Post 15: Reserved. - Post 16: Reserved. - Post 17: Reserved.
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Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2010 8:36 am
What Causes Psychosis [leaflet]
What Causes Psychosis?
There are many different kinds of psychosis, including organic psychosis, drug-induced psychosis, depressive psychosis, schizophreniform di
sorder, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Although most of these different types of psychosis are caused in much the same way, we will be using schizoprenia and bipolar disorder in the examples below, as we understand these kinds of psychosis better than others.
It is a chemical imbalance in the brain that is thought to cause psychosis. In the last few decades, research has helped us in understanding that this imbalance is most often caused by a combination of genetic vulnerability and environmental vulnerability.
Each person will have different levels of these vulnerabilities, but it is important to understand that a combination of several vulnerability factors, both genetic and environmental, is needed in order for a person to develop psychosis.
Genetic Vulnerability
Our DNA contains genes, which give our bodies the instructions on how to make proteins. Proteins are the building blocks of all the different cells in our bodies, including neurotransmiters, receptors, and transporters in the brain.
When there is a mistake in a gene, it is called a mutation. Mutations are common and everyone has some. Because genes contain the instructions on how to make proteins, the ones with mistakes can produce proteins that may not perform their functions as well as they should. When a mutation occurs in a gene that contains the instructions for a brain protein, like a neurotransmitter, it may contribute to a chemical imbalance in the brain, which is one of the factors in the development of the psychosis.
Recent research has found mutations in several genes, which scientists think might contribute to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Being able to find and identify these genes may lead to better diagnosis and treatment of psychosis.
Environment Vulnerability
There are many different environmental factors that have each been shown to lead to a small increase in the likelihood of someone developing psychosis. For example, research has shown that it is two times more common for individuals with schizophrenia to have had a difficult delivery at birth. Other environment vulnerability factors include being born in the winter months, being brought up in a big city, immigration, childhood head injury, stressful life events, and use of street drugs.
Chances For People to Develop Psychosis
Psychosis is common, affecting about 3% of the population. Schizophrenia affects about 1% of the population, bipolar disorder affects about 1 - 2% of the population, and major depression affects about 5 - 10% of the population.
The chance for developing these illnesses are higher for people who have a family member who is affected. For example, a person with a brother, sister or parent with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder has a 10 - 15% chance of developing the disorders themselves (which is also an 85 - 90% chance of not developing schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, on the flip side).
For hundreds of years, people have known that some kinds of psychosis seem to "run in families," but the reasons for them were unclear. In the last few decades, research has been helping us to better understand why this seems to happen.
Important: If you have a family member with psychosis and you are concerned about the chances of yourself or other family members developing a similar illness, ask your family doctor or psychiatrist to refer you to the local Medical Genetics Department for a genetic counselling appointment. A genetic counsellor will take a detailed family history and help you to understand the illness in your family, appreciate the way genes contribute to the disorder, and educate you about the risk of recurrence.
Reducing the Chance of Relapse
Stressful life events can precede an episode of psychosis, acting as a trigger. Stressors can range from everyday hassles, to accidents or bereavements. Developing effective methods of managing and copying with stress can help to reduce the chance of relapse. If the person is able to have a supportive, calm and relaxed home life, the problems are less likely to return.
Some types of street drugs can trigger an episode of psychosis in people who have a genetic vulnerability. Some drugs, like amphetamines and cocaine, can cause drug-induced psychosis. Stopping the use of these street drugs can reduce the chance of relapse.
Medications prescribed by your psychiatrist not only reduce the chance of relapse, but they also work to reduce the symptoms of psychosis.
~
The information in this post is from the Early Psychosis Intervention Program (in BC, Canada). I do not claim to own any of this information, nor am I trying to profit from it.
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Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2010 8:49 am
Early Intervention for Psychosis [leaflet]
Early intervention of psychosis involves:
- Early detection and treatment of the first-episode of psychosis.
- Sustained treatment during "the critical period."
- Early detection and treatment of any psychotic relapses.
1) Early Detection and Treatment of the First-Episode of Psychosis
Numerous studies have shown that there is often a major delay in initiating treatment for people affected by a psychotic disorder.
These delays vary widely from person to person, but the interval between onset of psychiatric symptoms and commencement of appropriate treatment is often more than 1 year.
A long duration of untreated psychosis has been shown to involve significant distress, disruption and development of secondary problems for individuals and their relatives.
Some evidence showsn that long delays in obtaining treatment may also cause the illness to become less responsive to treatment.
It has been found that delays in receiving treatment are associated with slower and less complete recovery, and that long duration of psychotic symptoms before treatment appears to contribute to poorer prognosis and a greater chance of early relapse.
2) Sustained Treatment During the "Critical Period"
The "critical period" is considered to be the first few years after the onset of psychosis.
It is during this time that social and personal disability is most likely to develop.
Depression, unemployment, homelessness, decreased social supports, drug abuse, and loss of self-esteem can develop aggressively during the critical period.
The longer these needs are not dealt with, the more difficult they are to treat or deal with.
By actively treating the psychosis and secondary problems during the first few years after onset of illness, better long-term outcomes can be achieved.
For this reason, early intervention is not just treating the first episode. It also consists of sustained treatment to prevent the development of disability and ehance the quality of life.
3) Early Detection and Treatment of Any Psychotic Relapses
Individuals experiencing a first episode of psychosis are at risk for relapse.
Through sustained treatment during the critical period, the risk of relapse will be reduced, but not eliminated.
It is therefore necessary to be alert to any signs of impending relapse and intervene as early as possible to either prevent the relapse or reduce its severity.
Benefits of Early Intervention
Some of the potential benefits of early intervention include:
- Reduced secondary problems and work/school disruption.
- Retention of social skills and support.
- Decreased need for hospitalization.
- More rapid progress and better prognosis.
- Reduced family disruption and stress.
- Less treatment resistance and lower risk of relapse.
~
The information in this post is from the Early Psychosis Intervention Program (in BC, Canada). I do not claim to own any of this information, nor am I trying to profit from it.
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Posted: Sat Dec 18, 2010 8:50 am
Mental Illness in the Family [pamphlet]
Having a family member with a mental illness can be very stressful. Whether the ill person is a son, daughter, husband, wife, brother or sister, you will be affected by their illness too. A person with a psychiatric disorder often needs much love, help and support. At the same time, the problems, fears and behaviour of your ill relative may strain your patience and your ability to cope.
There are many different kinds of mental illness, and each has its own symptoms. During periods when your relative is ill, he/she may be demanding and disruptive, or extremely withdrawn and inactive. In fact, an ill person’s behaviour may keep on changing because the symptoms may fluctuate.
Whether you suspect, or know for certain, that a member of your family has a psychiatric disorder, you will probably find that it helps to learn about the disorder.
What Causes Mental Illness?
Mental illness has no single cause. In the past, parents were routinely blamed if their child developed a mental illness. More recently, there has been increasing medical evidence that many of the major mental illnesses involve biochemical imbalances in the body. This knowledge is helping to remove the burden of guilt and blame from parents’ shoulders.
How is a Diagnosis Made?
Diagnosing a mental illness is not always a simple matter. A psychiatrist may take a long time to determine the nature of the illness, and sometimes, a different diagnosis may be made by another psychiatrist.
Since patients’ medical records are confidential, doctors cannot tell the family directly what the diagnosis is. To avoid the frustration of not knowing what is happening, encourage your ill relative to tell you about his/her diagnosis and treatment.
Coping With Your Relative’s Symptoms
Much of the unusual behaviour associated with some mental illnesses is beyond the control of the person with the illness.
At times, your ill relative may embarrass you in front of friends and neighbours. Because it is difficult to talk about your relative’s problems with people outside your immediate family, you may not offer an explanation. Man y families, unfortunately, give up their social lives when a relative becomes mentally ill because they are nervous about inviting people into their home.
While it takes courage to tell your friends and family about your relative’s illness, it is not good to isolate yourself. Try to find ways to explain the illness and the treatment to others, and to talk about the discomfort you and other people feel as a result of your relative’s behaviour.
Although your relative cannot “turn off” the symptoms, there are limits to the kind of behaviour you can deal with in your home. If your mentally ill relative is doing things which put him/her or anyone else in danger, you may have to refuse to let him/her continue to live with you, at least until the dangerous behaviour changes.
How Are Mental Illnesses Treated?
Treatment is different for each mental illness. People with schizophrenia are usually given medication, as are people with depression, manic depression or anxiety disorders. In addition to medication, a doctor may suggest individual psychotherapy (counselling) or group therapy. They may also refer the person to other community programs and services.
What Community Services Are Available For Mentally Ill People?
People with a serious mental illness may not develop the usual practical living skills in their teen or early adult years, because the mental illness has made normal living very difficult.
To help these people cope with daily life and to live with a reasonable degree of independence, many organizations have developed community support programs. Some of these provide housing along with counselling and life-skills teaching. Vocational rehabilitation programs help people develop job skills. Other programs help people who are having problems developing social relationships.
What About Income?
Many families do not realize that their relative is entitled to social benefits if he/she cannot work because of a mental illness. Even if an adult relative is living with you, you do not have to provide the sole financial support.
You should investigate whether your relative qualifies for Canada Pension Plan disability benefits – either regular welfare or a special allowance for disabled people.
Support For the Family
Having a mental ill member of your family can add an extra strain much of the time for the rest of the family. You may worry about how the person with the illness is going to behave: if he/she will become violence, verbally abusive, or careless about safety and security. If the ill relative is living in your home, you may become depressed, anxious or angry yourself.
In many communities, there are self-help support groups for families of mentally ill people, which are set up by families in similar situations. It can be extremely helpful to share your burdens with others and to get more information about the illness and other community resources.
Another option is to consider getting a therapist for yourself to help you deal with the depression, anxiety or anger you may be feeling as a result of the stress of trying to support and care for a person with a mental illness.
What Can You Do in a Crisis?
From time to time, your relative’s symptoms may become severe. When this happens, it is important for him/her to see a psychiatrist right away. This can be easy if he/she agrees that help is needed. If your relative refuses to visit a doctor or go to a hospital emergency room, you have a much more difficult situation on your hands. If all your efforts to persuade him/her to go for help fail, try to get someone else involved. If you think he/she is becoming dangerous, you can call the police and ask them to take him/her to the hospital.
Some communities have special psychiatric crisis programs. Find out, in advance, if this kind of service is available where you live.
Do You Need More Information?
There are many good books on mental illness, and some of them are written for families. Check at your local library or bookstore. You can also talk to your relative’s psychiatrist or social worker. While they won’t always give you information about the treatment being provided, they can tell you more about the illness and the effects of medications.
If you need more information about community support programs for people with mental illness and their families, contact a community organization, such as the Canadian Mental Health Association, which can help you find additional support.
The Canadian Mental Health Association is a national voluntary association that exists to promote the mental health of all people. CMHA believes that everyone should have choices so that, when they need to, they can reach out to family, friends, formal services, self-help groups, or community organizations.
~
The information in this post belongs to the Canadian Mental Health Association, copyright 1993. I do not claim to own any of this information, nor am I trying to profit from it.
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Posted: Fri Jan 14, 2011 11:08 am
Schizophrenia: A Guide for the First Nations Community [pamphlet]
This guide will answer some of the commonly asked questions about schizophrenia.
A) What is Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a disease that affects a person's thinking, emotions and sensory perception (ex: vision or hearing). These symptoms make it diffcult for the person to tell what is real from what is not real. Schizophrenia most often strikes young people between the ages of 16-30. There is no known cure for schizophrenia, but it can be managed with medication and support.
An an Aboriginal person, do I have a greater change of getting schizophrenia?
No. Schizophrenia is found all over the world - in all races, all cultures, and in all social classes. It afects 1 in every 100 people worldwide, and occurs in men and women with equal frequency.
What causes schizophrenia?
The causes of schizophrenia are not yet completely understood. Research has shown that people with schizophrenia have an imbalance in their neurotransmitters - the chemicals that allow brain cells to communicate. Most medications for schizophrenia work through balancing these neurotransmitters. Schizophrenia is NOT caused by bad parenting or by poverty. Use of street drugs and alcohol CAN make the symptoms of schizophrenia worse.
B) What Are the Symptoms of Schizophrenia?
Like other diseases, schizophrenia has signs or symptoms. Symptoms are not the same for everyone. Schizophrenia always involves a change in the person's abilities and personality. Family members and friends notice that the person is "not the same." A decline is usually noticed in:
- Work or school activities.
- Relationships with others.
- Personal care and cleanliness.
What are the most common changes seen in a person with schizophrenia?
- Personality change: At first, these changes may be minor and go unnoticed. Eventually, they become more obvious to friends and family. There is a loss of emotion, interest and motivation. An outgoing person may become withdrawn, quiet or moody. Emotions may be inappropriate (ex: the person may laugh at a sad situation) or the person may not be able to show any emotion at all.
- Thought disorder: Thoughts may be slow to form, come extra fast, or not at all. The person may jump from topic to topic, seem confused, or have difficulty making simple decisions. Thinking may be clouded by delusions - false beliefs that have no basis in reality. The person may think that they are being persecuted (ex: being spied on or plotted against). They may think that they have special powers or that they have a personal mission to save the world.
- Perceptual changes: The person may see, hear, smell, or feel sensations that are not real. These are called hallucinations. Peope with schizophrenia will often hear voices. Sometimes, the voices are threatening or condemning: they may give direct orders such as, "kill yourself." There is always a danger that such commands will be obeyed.
People who are ill may also have visual hallucinations - colours, shapes and faces may change before the person's eyes. A door may appear where no door exists; a wild animal or long-dead relative may suddenly appear.
Sounds, tastes and smells may be distorted. A ringing telephone may sound as loud as a fire alarm, or a loved one's voice as threatening as a barking dog. The person experiencing these frightening changes may try to hide what is going on.
People with schizophrenia need understanding and reassurance that family and friends will not abandon them.
C) How is Schizophrenia Treated?
The proper treatment of schizophrenia involves the patient, the family and the community. Using a combination of treatments works best:
- Medication: Most patients with schizophrenia have to take medication to keep their illness under control. These medications often have unpleasant side effects.
- Education: Patients and their families should learn all they can about schizophrenia. They should also be included in planning treatment.
- Hospitalization and regular follow-up: A person who is acutely ill with schizophrenia will probably need to be hospitalized. This allows the patient to be monitored and put on medication under the supervision of trained staff. Once the patient is discharged, regular follow-up care will reduce the chances of relapse. Other treatment options include family counselling, social skills training, self-help groups for families, and proper attention to nutrition, rest and exercise.
Remember - early treatment is the key to a positive outcome!
You can also help by seeking advice. If you think you or someone you know is suffering from schizophrenia, contact:
- Mission Mental Health Centre: 604-814-5600
- Abbotsford Mental Health Centre: 604-870-7800
- Chilliwack Mental Health Centre: 604-702-4860
- Hope Mental Health Centre: 604-860-7733
Mental Health Centres are open Monday through Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm.
- Emergency Mental Health Services: 604-820-1166 or 1-877-820-7444
- Aboriginal Mental Health Liason Program, Sto:lo Nation Health Services: 1-877-411-3200
(serves Tsawwassen to Boston Bar)
- BC Mental Health Information Line: 1-800-661-2121 & www.heretohelp.bc.ca
- Mood Disorders Association of BC: 604-873-0103
- BC Schizophrenia Society (BCSS): 1-888-888-0029 & www.bcss.org
- BCSS Abbotsford Branch: 604-859-0105
There is no cost to you for the above mentioend services.
~
The information in this post belongs to the First Nations Mental Health Program from Strathcona Mental Health Centre in Vancouver, BC, Canada. I do not claim to own any of this information, nor am I trying to profit from it.
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Posted: Fri Jan 14, 2011 11:11 am
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Posted: Fri Jan 14, 2011 11:12 am
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Posted: Fri Jan 14, 2011 11:13 am
Children and Depression [pamphlet]
There are ups and downs in everyone’s life. We all become unhappy when we experience problems and set-backs. These unhappy feelings are usually temporary. For some people, though, sad feelings last a long time and are quite severe. “Depression” is a clinical term used by psychiatrists to describe a long period when a person feels very sad to the point of feeling worthless, hopeless and helpless.
Depression can be caused by stress, a loss, or a major disappointment. Sometimes, it seems to happen for no particular reason at all. Depression can be the result of a chemical imbalance in a person’s body, and some people are born with a built-in tendency to become depressed.
Whatever the reason may be, depression can affect all aspects of our lives: work, family, relationships, friendships, and even our physical health. Depression does not affect only adults. It can happen to children and teenagers too, and it is just as real a problem for them as it is for adults.
Very likely, a depressed child will think that no one else feels the same way and that no one will understand his/her problems. Often, a depressed child will feel that he/she is disliked by everyone.
Sometimes it can be difficult for adults to understand how difficult a children’s problems can be because we look at their problems through adult eyes. But the pressures of school and growing up can be very hard for some children to cope with successfully. It is important that we remind ourselves that, while their problems may seem unimportant to us, they can be overwhelming to them.
Signs of Depression in Children and Teens
If your child becomes depressed, he/she is unlikely to talk about it. Your first warning signs will probably be changes in behaviour that may suggest a troubled and unhappy state of mind. A child who used to be active and involved may suddenly become quiet and withdrawn. A good student might start getting poor grades.
Some of the common signs of depression can occur when school, social or family pressures may become too great. Do not assume that your child is experiencing a major depression if she/she shows only one of these signs. Your child may, however, be depressed and need professional help if there are unexplained changes in his/her behaviour or if you notice several of the following signs of depression:
- Changes in feelings: Your child may show signs of being unhappy, worried, guilty, angry, fearful, helpless, hopeless, lonely or rejected.
- Physical changes: Your child may start to complain of headaches, or general aches and pains. He/she may have a lack of energy, sleeping or eating problems, or feel tired all the time.
- Changes in thinking: Your child may say things that indicate low self-esteem, self-dislike, or self-blame. He/she may have difficulty concentrating, or frequently experience negative thoughts. He/she might even think about suicide.
- Changes in behaviour: Your child might withdraw from others, cry easily, or show less interest in sports, games, or other fun activities that he/she normally likes. He/she might over-react and have sudden outbursts of anger or tears over fairly small incidents.
How to Help a Depressed Child
Talk to your child. If you have noticed any of the signs discussed here, do your best to encourage your child to talk to you about how he/she is feeling and what is bothering him/her.
If you think your child is seriously depressed, do not panic. Professional help is available to both your child and yourself.
Depression is very treatable. Children, teens and adults can all be helped to overcome depression.
Start by checking with your family doctor to find out if there could be a physical cause for your child’s feelings of fatigue, aches and pains, and low moods.
Talk to your child’s school to find out if any teachers have also noticed changes in behaviour and mood. Talking to your child’s teacher about his/her difficulties may change the way the teacher interacts with your child, and can increase your child’s sense of self-esteem in the classroom.
Many school boards have professional counsellors on staff. The school counsellor may be able to refer you to individual or group counselling to help children and teens cope with stress.
The school counsellor or your family doctor may refer you to a children’s mental health clinic. If there isn’t a clinic nearby, there may be a psychiatrist or psychologist who specializes in working with children.
Depression Affects the Whole Family
It is important to recognize your own feelings about your child’s depression. Since it is not always known why children become depressed, you might find that you are feeling guilty or frustrated. Without wanting to, you may let your child know this and make him/her feel rejected and misunderstood.
It is not easy to cope with the needs of a depressed child. You may need help in learning how to help your child deal with his/her unhappy feelings, as well as how to deal with your own feelings about his/her problems. Consider getting counselling for yourself as well as for your child. Many therapists automatically schedule counselling sessions when they are working with a depressed child.
You should also be honest with brothers and sisters, and other family members about your depressed child’s needs. That way, he/she will have several sources of support and understanding.
Do You Need More Help?
If you have reason to suspect that your child may be depressed, there are many helpful books that can help you understand depression, and others which give good advice on parenting. Check with your local library.
If you need more information about professional mental health services and community support programs for depressed children and their families, contact a community organization, such as the Canadian Mental Health Association, which can help you find additional support.
The Canadian Mental Health Association is a nation-wide, voluntary organization that promotes the mental health of all and supports the resilience and recovery of people experiencing mental illnesss. CMHA accomplishes this through advocacy, education, research and service.
Visit the CMHA website at www.cmha.ca today.
~
The information in this post belongs to the Canadian Mental Health Association, copyright 1993. I do not claim to own any of this information, nor am I trying to profit from it.
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Posted: Fri Jan 14, 2011 11:14 am
Mood Problems in Children and Adolescents [pamphlet]
Mood problems affect a person's thoguhts, how they feel about themselves and the way they think about things. The most common mood problem is depression, of which there are several types. Even very small children can experience depression, although the way they express the feeling may not be the same as an adult.
Very young children show that they are depressed by the way they behave. They may not be able to tell people how they feel. Instead, they will say they have a stomache, a headache, or other aches and pains.
In teensagers, a certain amount of moodiness is to be expected. Sometimes, though, teenagers can become seriously depressed.
Children and adolescents who are depressed may seem as though they are not paying attention in class, or that they are ignoring what their parents say. If combined with other behaviours, like feeling sad all the time or crying easily, this is often a symptom of depression.
Other symptoms of depression include irritability and loss of interest in activities the child used to enjoy, like sports or going out with friends. Anxiety is often present, too.
Depressed teens are at high risk for suicide. It is very important that parents, other caregivers and teachers are aware of the symptoms of depression in children and adolescents. Depression that is not treated can also lead to long-term health problems.
Types of Mood Problems
- Major Depression: Major depression can be a long-lasting and disabling condition that affects most aspects of a person's life. It has distinct emotional, mental and physical symptoms, like feeling sad, hopeles or guilty for more than 2 weeks, or having problems sleeping or eating.
- Dysthymia: Dysthymia is a chronic low level depression lasing for at least 2 years that reduces a person's ability to enjoy life, or feel enthusiastic or ambitious. It often starts in childhood, and can continue throughout life.
- Bipolar Disorder: Bipolar disorder is a condition which in adults is characterized by switching between depression and over-excitement (the so-called "manic" phase).
In children, however, the two emotional states (depression and mania) may not alternate. Instead, there may be long periods of depression, with the manic phase not appearing until years later.
In children and teens, the primary symptoms are often irritability and feeling very important, and able to do anything (grandiosity).
What's Normal and What's Not?
There is a difference between feeling sad and being depressed. Sadness tends to be felt over a short period of time and is related to a specific event. It has milder effects on one's day-to-day life.
Grief - sadness that is experienced after the loss of a loved one - is perfectly normal and should be experienced after such an event.
Worry and fearfulness are also common and quite normal. Being afraid in threatening situations is a good thing: it heightens awareness, and gives you the motivation and energy to get out of harm's way - the so-called "flight or fight" response.
However, when feelings of sadness, worry or anxiety don't go away, and they interfere with a person's enjoyment of life or their ability to function, this may be a sign of depression. When this happens, it is time to see a doctor or other mental health profressional.
It is important to get help for children and teens when:
- They feel sad all the time and cry easily.
- They are irritable or have problems eating or sleeping.
- They lose interest in activities they used to enjoy.
Depressed teens are at high risk of suicide. Parents, other caregivers, and teachers need to be able to spot early signs of depression in children and adolescents so that treatment can be provided at the earliest stages.
What Causes Mood Problems?
Symptoms of depression in children and adolescentscan be related to a number of things. It can be triggered by a sad or painful event like a death in the family. It can develop in children who observe constant fighting between their parents. It can also result from the child experiencing parental neglect or abuse.
However, being prone to more serious kinds of mood problems can run in families. They happen because chemicals in the brain that help regulate mood are not working properly.
Sometimes, when children are under stress early in life, their bodies change in a way that can make them react badly to stress for the rest of their life. As a result, they develop problems with depression and/or anxiety that can be lifelong.
How common are they?
At one time, depression in any of its forms can be found in about 3.5% of children and teenagers between the ages of 5-17, and the rate increases with age.
In the teen years, many more girls report symptoms of depression than do boys. In childhood, there are no such differences between boys and girls.
How long do they last?
The length of time a person will have a mood disorder depends on the kind of mood disorder.
Major depression usually lasts 6 months or more, and dysthymia lasts 2 or more years. Both can be short-lived or last a lifetime. It all depends on whether or not they are diagnosed and treated early and successfully.
Bipolar disorder is usually a lifelong condition.
What treatment is effective?
Treatment of depression in children and adolescents can consist of either behavioural therapy or drug therapy. The first line of treatment is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which helps the child or adolescent change ways ot thinking and acting that contribute to a depressed mood.
A newer class of antidepressants called SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) is now being widely used to treat more severe cases of major depression. These drugs work by allowing the body to make more efficient use of serotonin, a chemical in the brain that can affect mood and behaviour.
Bipolar disorder is treated with a number of different drugs, as well as family and individual therapy.
Resources
Background Information
Title: Raising a Moody Child: How to Cope With Depression and Bipolar Disorder
Author: Mary A. Fristad & Jill S. Goldberg Arnold
Publisher: The Guilford Press
Title: Adolescent depression: A Guide for Parents
Author: Frnacis mark Mondimore
Publisher: The John Hopkins University Press
Title: More Than Moody: Recognizing and Treating Adolescent Depression
Author: Harold Koplewicz
Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons
Step-By-Step Guides
Title: Helping Your Depressed Child: A Step-By-Step Guide for Parents
Author: Martha Underwood Barnard
Publisher: New Harbringer Publications
Title: Raising Depression-Free Children
Author: Kathleen Hockey
Publisher: Hazelden
Title: Is Your Child Depressed? Answers to Your Toughest Questions
Author: Nathan Naparstek
Publisher: McGraw-Hill
Title: Helping Your Teenager Beat Depression: A Problem-Solving Approach for Families
Author: Katharina Manassis & Anne Marie Levac
Publisher: Woodbine House
Title: Coping With Depression in Young People: A Guide for Parents
Author: Carol Fitzpatrick & John Sharry
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
For Youth
Title: Recovering From Depression: A Workbook for Teens
Author: Carol Fitzpatrick & John Sharry
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
Websites
- American Academy of Adolescent and Child Psychiatry: www.aacap.org/publications/factsFam/depressed.htm
- National Institute of Mental Health Booklet on Depression: www.nimh.nih.gov/healthinformation/depressionmenu.cfm
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The information in this post belongs to the Offord Centre for Child Studies, part of the BC Ministry of Child and Family Development. I do not claim to own any of this information, nor am I trying to profit from it.
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Posted: Fri Jan 14, 2011 11:15 am
Resources - Book List for Anxiety, Behaviour Problems, Mood Problems & Depression [leaflets] ANXIETY IN CHILDREN AND YOUTHBackground InformationTitle: If Your Adolescent Has an Anxiety Disorder: An Essential Resource For Parents Author: Edna B. Foa & Linda Andrews Publisher: Oxford University Press Year: 2006 Summary: Provides an in-depth look at the causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention of anxiety disorder. Title: Coping With Social Anxiety: The Definitive Guide to Effective Treatment Options Author: Eric Hollander Publisher: Holt Paperbacks Year: 2005 Summary: The complete guide to understanding and overcoming social anxiety disorder, from a prominent researcher and leading clinician. Title: Freeing Your Child From Anxiety: Powerful, Practical Solutions to Overcome Your Child's Fears, Worries, and Phobias Author: Tamar E. Chansky Publisher: Broadway Year: 2004 Summary: Examines all manifestations of childhood fears, and guides parents through a program to help your child back to emotional safety. Books for Young PeopleTitle: What to Do When They Worry Too Much: A Kid's Guide to Overcoming Anxiety Author: Dawn Huebrier Publisher: Magination Press Year: 2005 Summary: Guides children and parents through the cognitive-behavioural techniques most often used in the treatment of anxiety. Step-By-Step GuidesTitle: What to Do When Your Child Has Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder! Strategies and Solutions Author: Aureen Pinto Wagner Publisher: Lighthouse Press Year: 2002 Summary: Presents a step-by-step approach that countless children have used successfully to regain control from OCD. Title: Keys to Parenting Your Anxious Child Author: Katharina Marlassis Publisher: Baron's Educational Series Year: 1996 Summary: A practical guide that shows parents how to recognize a child's anxieties, and offers specific advice. Title: Living Fully With Shyness and Social Anxiety: A Comprehensive Guide to Gaining Social Confidence Author: Erika B. Hilliard Publisher: Marlowe & Company Year: 2005 Summary: The author, a therapist and mental health expert, offers a comprehensive guide to living successfully and confidently with anxiety in social situations. Title: Help For Worried Kids: How Your Child Can Conquer Anxiety and Fear Author: Cynthia G. Last Publisher: Guilford Press Year: 2005 Summary: Readers will learn to be consistent and encouraging as their child develops the confidence needed to face -and conquer- worries of every kind. Title: Your Anxious Child: How Parents and Teachers Can Relieve Anxiety in Children Author: John S. Dacey & Lisa B. Fioe Publisher: Jossely-Bass Year: 2001 Summary: Based on the COPE program, your child will learn how to alleviate stress, build courage and trust, and become an innovative problem solver. Title: Helping Your Anxious Chil: A Step-By-Step Guide for Parents Author: Ronald Rapee Publisher: New Harbringer Publications Year: 2000 Summary: Parents are provided a step-by-step guide for assisting their children in overcoming a panoply of worries, fears and anxieties. (Information from the Canadian Paediatric Society, the Canadian Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, McMaster Children's Hospital, and the CIBC World Markets Children's Foundation. I do not claim to own any of this information, nor am I trying to profit from it.) ===================== BEHAVIOUR PROBLEMSTitle: No More Misbehavin': 38 Difficult Behaviours and How to Stop Them Author: Michele Borba Publisher: Josey-Bass Year: Feb. 2003 Title: Kids Are Worth It! Revised Edition: Giving Your Child the Gift of Inner Discipline Author: Barbara Coloroso Publisher: Harper Resource Year: Sept. 2002 Title: The Difficult Child (2nd revised edition) Author: Stanley Turecki Publisher: Bantam Year: Mar. 2000 Title: How to Behave So Your Children Will, Too! Author: Sal Severe Publisher: Penguin USA Year: July 2003 Title: Your Defiant Child: Eight Steps to Better Behaviour Author: Russell Barkley Publisher: Guilford Press Year: Oct. 1998 Title: Discipline: The Brazelton Way Author: T. Berry Brazelton Publisher: Perseus Publishing Year: Jan. 2003 Title: Making Children Mind Without Losing Yours Author: Kevin Leman Publisher: Fleming H. Revell Co. Year: Sept. 2000 Title: Raising Your Spirited Child: A Guide for Parents Whose Child is More Intense, Sensitive, Perceptive, Energetic Author: Mary Sheedy Kurcinka Publisher: Perennial Press Year: April 1998 Title: Rage, Rebellion & Rudeness: Parenting Teenagers in the New Millenium Author: G. Scott Woodling Publisher: Fitzhenry & Whiteside Limited Year: July 2003 Title: Backtalk: Four Steps to Ending Rude Behaviour in Your Kids Author: Carolyn Crowder Publisher: Fireside Year: Mar. 1998 Websites- http://www.aacap.org/publications/factsfam/- http://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/behaviour/(Information in this post is from McMaster Children's Hospital and BC's Ministry of Children and Family Development. I do not claim to own any of this information, for am I trying to profit from it.) ============================ MOOD PROBLEMS AND DEPRESSIONTitle: Growing Up Sad: Childhood Depression and Its Treatment Author: Leon Cytryn Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company Year: 1998 Title: "Help Me, I'm Sad": Recognizing, Treating, and Preventing Childhood and Adolescent Depression Author: David G. Fassier Publisher: Penguin Books Year: 1998 Title: The Depressed Child: A Parent's Guide for Rescuing Kids Author: Douglas A. Riley Publisher: Taylor Trade Publishing Year: 2001 Title: Adolescent Depression: A Guide for Parents Author: Francis Mark Mondimore Publisher: John Hopkins University Press Year: 2002 Title: Understanding Teenage Depression: A Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management Author: Maureen Empfield Publisher: Owl Books Year: 2001 Title: Bipolar Disorder: A Guide for Patients and Family Author: Francis Mark Mandimore Publisher: John Hopkins University Press Year: 1999 Title: Raising a Moody Child: How to Cope with Depression and Bipolar Disorder Author: Mary A. Fristad Publisher: The Guilford Press Year: 2003 Title: More Than Moody: Recognizing and Treating Adolescent Depression Author: Harold Koplewicz Publisher: Perigree Books Year: 2003 Title: The Depression Workbook: A Guide for Living With Depression and Manic Depression Author: M.A. Copeland Publisher: New Harbringer Publications Year: 2002 Websites- http://www.aacap.org/publications/factsFam/depressed.htm- http://www.nimh.nih.gov/healthinformation/depressionmenu.cfm(The information in this post is from McMaster Children's Hospital and BC's Ministry of Children and Family Development. I do not claim to own any of this information, nor am I trying to profit from it.) ========================== ANXIETYTitle: Coping With Anxiety and Panic Attacks Author: Jordan Lee Rosen Publisher: Publishing Group Year: 2000 Title: Keys to Parenting Your Anxious Child Author: Katharina Manassis Publisher: Barronsnn Educational Series Year: 1996 Title: The Anxiety Cure for Kids: A Guide for Parents Author: E. D. Spencer Publisher: John Wiley & Sons Year: 2003 Title: Freeing Your Child From Anxiety: Powerful, Practical Solutions to Overcome Your Child's Fears, Worries and Phobias Author: T. E. Chansky Publisher: Broadway Books Year: 2004 Title: Seven Steps to Help Your Child Worry Less: A Family Guy Author: Krista Agar Publisher: Specialty Press Year: 2003 Title: The Worried Child: Recognizing Anxiety in Children and Helping Them Heal Author: Paul Foxman Publisher: Hunter House Year: 2004 Title: Your Anxious Child: Raising a Healthy Child in a Frightening World Author: Mary Ann Shaw Publisher: Tapestry Press Year: 2003 Title: Helping Your Anxious Child: A Step-By-Step Guide for Parents Author: Ronald Rapee Publisher: New Harbringer Publications Year: 2000 Title: Your Anxious Child: How Parents and Teachers Can Relieve Anxiety in Children Author: John S. Dacey Publisher: Jossey-Bass Year: 2001 Websites- http://www.aacap.org/publications/factsFam/anxious.htm- http://www.adaa.org/AnxietyDisorderInfor/ChildrenAdo.cfm- http://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/behaviour/fears.htm(Information in this post is from McMaster Children's Hospital and BC's Ministry of Child and Famil Development. I do not claim to own any of this information, nor am I trying to profit from it.)
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Posted: Fri Jan 14, 2011 11:19 am
Grief After Suicide [pamphlet]
The death of someone close to us is one of life’s most stressful events. When the death is from suicide, family and friends must cope with sadness at the loss, plus all their feelings of confusion and sometimes even anger. It takes time to heal and each of us responds differently. We may need help to cope with the changes in our lives. But in the end, coping effective with bereavement is vital to our mental health.
If someone close to you has just committed suicide, we hope this pamphlet will help you understand that you are not alone in your struggle, and that help is available. If you have a grieving friend or relative, this pamphlet may help both of you understand and cope with this difficult time.
How Common is Suicide?
Approximately 1 out of every 4 people knows someone who has committed suicide. The deceased leave behind a network of family and close friends who must cope with the same inner turmoil that you are probably trying to understand and cope with now.
Am I to Blame? Could I Have Helped?
No, you are not to blame. After a suicide, family members and friends often go over the pre-death circumstances and events, blaming themselves for things they think they should or should not have done. “If only I had persuaded him to get help!” or “If only I hadn’t told her I wanted separation...”
Even though suicide is an individual decision, it is a very natural and common reaction for survivors to feel guilt or responsibility. People who are left behind should seek out bereavement counselling or support groups to help relieve this feeling of responsibility.
What Are the Stages of Grieving?
There are many different stages of grieving. The three stages outlined below are the ones which most people will experience. However, people do not usually flow from the first stage through to the last in a logical order. Some people may jump back and forth between stages, and the length of time it takes to go through the different stages may vary.
Stage I – Numbness or Shock – Initially, people function almost mechanically. You may also feel anger, confusion, or even relief depending on the circumstances. These feelings are normal. Many people at this stage will keep an emotional distance from others to protect themselves and to avoid discussing the death.
Stage II – Disorganization – It is normal to feel lonely, depressed and tearful at this point. You may even have problems eating or sleeping. Some people may feel sorry for themselves, and even hallucinate. You may agonize over things you think you could have done for the deceased. At this stage, you may need to reach out to someone and discuss your feelings.
Stage III – Re-Organization – You will begin to feel more comfortable and may find that there are moments in your day when you do not think about your loss. Your feelings will not be as intense, and you will be able to focus on daily tasks. At this point, most people need encouragement to re-enter life’s mainstream.
But remember, there is hope and help. You may never get over the death itself, but you will overcome the grief.
Is Anger or Relief a Natural Reaction?
While all kinds of loss are painful, issues are different when dealing with a death by suicide. The length of time it takes to work through the stages of grief also varies depending on the circumstances.
Feelings of anger, confusion and relief are natural. Do not deny them. If the deceased person had previously been depressed and had previously attempted suicide, there is nothing wrong in feeling relieved that the burden is gone, or that you are angry because you have another burden to carry.
If you do not work through these feelings, you will prevent yourself from moving forward in the bereavement process. Not moving forward is dangerous; it can cause physical and mental illness and can tear families and friendships apart. It can stop people from coming to terms with suicide. You must face your feelings before you can work them out.
How Does Suicide Affect the Family?
It is important to realize that not all members of the family will grieve the same way, or go through the same stages at the same time. Every family member needs room and understanding to go through the bereavement process in his/her own way.
Be honest with children about the cause of death. Otherwise, they will go through the grieving process again when they learn the truth. Be careful not to ignore or forget the grief experienced by children. They need help dealing with it, but should not be “protected” from it.
How Will My Friends React?
Generally, friends are well meaning. They want to give support and help, but they may not know how. They may be afraid that they will overwhelm you or think that you want to be alone.
Guide them. Tell your friends that you want and need to talk about your loss. By opening up, you will help yourself and help your friends help you. People who talk out their feelings are usually the people who recover most quickly from a loss by suicide.
If your friends seem uncomfortable talking about the death, or even being with you, it may be a reaction to your discomfort. If you are uncomfortable talking about the circumstances, don’t. Your friends will already know. Let others simply respond to the death of your loved one.
As a Friend, What Should I Do?
Try to understand and be patient with a grieving friend. Do not ignore or overwhelm a person who has suffered a suicide in the family. NEVER BLAME ANYONE. Suicide is a decision made by one person, and judgements should not be made about the family.
Do not try to accelerate the process of bereavement. It can take a long time for a person to work through the grief, to deal with the confusion, and to come to terms with his/her feelings.
Treat your friend as you would treat anyone who has lost a family member. Be available to listen or to help out with the chores.
Encourage your friend to consider outside help from a counselling agency or a support group in the community. In a Suicide Bereavement Group or similar self-help group, your friend will be able to discuss his/her mixture of feelings with other people who have suffered a similar loss.
Acknowledge your friend’s feelings of guilt; it will help him/her come to terms with the fact that he/she is not to blame.
Do You Need More Help?
If you are bereaved and feel you need more assistance than family and friends can provide, contact a community organization, such as the Canadian Mental Health Association, which can help you find additional support.
The Canadian Mental Health Association is a national voluntary association that exists to promote the mental health of all people. CMHA believes that everyone should have choices so that, when they need to, they can reach out to family, friends, formal services, self-help groups, or community organizations.
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The information in this post belongs to the Canadian Mental Health Association, copyright 1993. I do not claim to own any of this information, nor am I trying to profit from it.
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Posted: Fri Jan 14, 2011 11:21 am
Reflections on Youth Suicide [pamphlet]
Adolescence is a time of dramatic change. The journey from child to adult can be complex and challenging. Young people often feel tremendous pressure to succeed at school, at home and in social groups. At the same time, they may lack the life experience that lets them know that difficult situations will not last forever. Mental health problems commonly associated with adults, such as depression, also affect young people. Any one of these factors, or a combination, may because such a source of pain that they seek relief in suicide.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people after motor vehicle accidents. Yet people are often reluctant to discuss it. This is partly due to the stigma, guilt or shame that surrounds suicide. People are often uncomfortable discussing it. Unfortunately, this tradition of silence perpetuates harmful myths and attitudes. It may also prevent people from talking openly about the pain they feel or the help they need.
Communication is the first essential step in assisting youths at risk of suicide. Learning the facts about suicide can help build a parent’s confidence in discussing a difficult situation.
Some Myths About Suicide
Myth Young people rarely think about suicide.
Reality: Teens and suicide are more closely linked than adults may suspect. In a survey of 15,000 Grade 7 – 12 students in British Columbia [Canada], 34% knew of someone who had attempted or died by suicide; 14% had made a suicide plan; 7% had made an attempt; and 2% had required medical attention due to an attempt.
Myth Talking about suicide will give a young person the idea, or permission, to consider suicide as a solution to their problems.
Reality: Talking calmly about suicide, without showing fear or making judgements, can bring relief to someone who is feeling terribly isolated. A willingness to listen shows sincere concern; encouraging someone to speak about their suicidal feelings can reduce the risk of an attempt.
Myth Suicide is sudden and unpredictable.
Reality: Suicide is most often a process, not an event. 8 out of 10 people who die by suicide gave some, or even many, indications of their intentions.
Myth Suicidal youth are only seeking attention or trying to manipulate others.
Reality: Efforts to manipulate others or grab attention are always a cause for concern. It is difficult to determine if a youth is at risk for suicide. All suicide threats must be taken seriously.
Myth Suicidal people are determined to die.
Reality: Suicidal youth are in pain. They don’t necessarily want to die; they want their pain to end. If their ability to cope is stretched to the limit, or if problems occur together with a mental illness, it can seem that death is the only way to make the pain stop.
Myth A suicidal person will always be at risk.
Reality: Most people feel suicidal at some time in their lives. The overwhelming desire to escape from pain can be relieved when the problem or pressure is relieved. Learning effective coping techniques to deal with stressful situations can help.
Who is at Risk?
In Canada, suicide is the second highest cause of death for youth aged 10-24. Each year, on average, 294 youths die from suicide. Many more attempt suicide. Aboriginal teens and gay and lesbian teens may be at particularly high risk, depending n the community they live in and their own self-esteem.
Suicide is a complex process. The cause can seldom be attributed to one single factor, such as the death by suicide of a rock star or family break-up. It may be a routine event or an overwhelming one that overloads a vulnerable youth’s coping mechanisms. As well, new research suggests that there may be a genetic link to suicide. A family history of suicidal behaviour should be taken into account, if for no other reason that the young person may have been affected by this behaviour in the past.
Suicidal youth rarely make a direct plea for help. But most will exhibit warning signs. Here are some of these signs:
- Sudden change in behaviour (positive or negative).
- Apathy, withdrawal, change in eating patterns.
- Unusual preoccupation with death or dying.
- Giving away valued personal possessions.
- Signs of depression; moodiness, hopelessness.
- One or more previous suicide attempts.
- Recent attempt or death by a friend or a family member.
Talking About Suicide
Warning signs are an invitation to communicate. A direct, straightforward response is most effective. Ask your child if he or she is contemplating suicide; no matter what you hear, trying not to be judgemental, shocked or angry. Do not communicate your personal attitudes about suicide; instead, offer support and reassurance that suicidal feelings do not last forever. Seek the assistance of a trained professional as soon as possible.
Your child’s school may have protocols to follow in case of a suicide attempt or death by suicide. It is important that the suicide is not romanticised or glamourised. Instead, teachers are encouraged to discuss with students the characteristics and events that can lead to suicide, and to explore with them all the other options that exist.
But school should not be the only source of help. For parents, an attempted suicide or death by suicide in their child’s circle of friends presents an opportunity to explore their child’s stress levels and methods of coping. Dramatic statements emphasizing the parent’s horror and fear of suicide are best avoided. It is more effective to express a willingness to talk and to be supportive, no matter what may be happening in the child’s life.
Where to Go For More Information
Check with your local library for books that help you understand suicide. Helpful resources on the internet include:
- The Canadian Health Network: www.canadian-health-network.ca
- The Canadian Mental Health Association: www.cmha.ca
- Centre for Suicide Prevention: www.suicideinfo.ca
Your local branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association can provide you with information on emergency response, suicide prevention and other professional services in your community.
The Canadian Mental Health Association is a nation-wide, voluntary organization that promotes the mental health of all and supports the resilience and recovery of people experiencing mental illness. CMHA accomplishes this mission through advocacy, education, research and service.
Visit the CMHA website at www.cmha.ca today.
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The information in this post belongs to the Canadian Mental Health Association, copyright 2000. I do not claim to own any of this information, nor am I trying to profit from it.
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Posted: Fri Jan 14, 2011 11:22 am
Anxiety Problems in Children and Adolescents [pamphlet]
Parents may notice that their child seems nervous or fearful. This may be related to a stressful event, such as performing in a school play or writing an exam. In such situations, it is normal for a child to worry or feel nervous. It can even help the child to memorize their lines or study for a test.
Children or teenagers may have a problem, however, if they are frequently nervous or worried and find it hard to cope with any new situation or challenge. Rather than just being “nervous,” the way they feel is better described as being “anxious.”
Anxiety is defined as a feeling of worry or unease. When the level of anxiety is great enough to interfere with a child or young person’s everyday activities, we call this an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorder is a psychiatric condition that may require medical or psychological treatment.
How Common Are Anxiety Disorders?
Roughly 6% of children and youth have an anxiety disorder that is serious enough to require treatment.
How Long Do They Last?
Without treatment, some of the anxiety disorders that begin in childhood can last a lifetime, although they may come and go.
What Causes Anxiety Disorders?
Anxiety disorders have multiple complex origins. It is likely that genes play a role in causing anxiety. However, the home, neighbourhood, school and other settings can contribute to anxiety.
For example, some babies or children who live with too much stress can become anxious. Other children may “learn” to respond in an anxious way to new situations because a parent or other caregiver shows anxiety. In most children and young people, it is a mix of these causes that leads to an anxiety disorder.
What’s Normal and What’s Not?
Being nervous about a single event, such as writing an exam, is normal. Trying to avoid any situation that causes anxiety is not normal and may mean that the child or teen has an anxiety disorder.
In some situations, anxiety may be normal for a normal child but not an older one. One common example is a child who becomes upset when left alone with a babysitter for the first time. This separation anxiety is a normal reaction for a young child, but would not be normal for a teenager. When the symptoms begin in later childhood or adolescence and continue for several weeks, then it may be time to seek professional help.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
Children and teens can have more than one type of anxiety disorder at the same time. Some types of anxiety disorders are:
- Separation Anxiety Disorder: Sometimes older children and teens become frightened at leaving their parent(s). They may worry that something bad might happen to their parent or to someone they love. It is only a problem if there is no real reason for this worry. These young people may have a condition called Separation Anxiety Disorder.
Children with Separation Anxiety Disorder may refuse to go to school, or they may be unable to go to sleep without a parent being present. They may have nightmares about being lost or kidnapped. They may also have physical symptoms like stomachaches, feeling sick to their stomach, or even throwing up out of fear. A diagnosis of separation anxiety is made if the behaviour has been present for at least 4 weeks and the behaviour results in real and ongoing social or school problems.
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GED): This is a condition in which the child or adolescent has many worries and fears. They have physical symptoms like tense muscles, a restless feeling, becoming tired easily, having problems concentrating, or trouble sleeping. Children with this condition often try to do things perfectly. They also feel a need for approval.
- Social Phobia: Social phobia is more likely to occur in teenagers than young children. It involves worrying about social situations, like having to go to school or having to speak in class. Symptoms may include sweating, blushing, or muscle tension.
People with this disorder usually try to control their symptoms by avoiding the situations they fear. Young people with social phobia are often overly sensitive to criticism and have trouble standing up for themselves. They can also suffer from low self-esteem, be easily embarrassed, and be very shy and self-conscious.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Symptoms for OCD usually begin in early childhood or adolescence. Children and young people with OCD often have frequent, uncontrollable thoughts (“obsessions”) that are unreasonable. These thoughts come to their mind a lot. They then need to perform certain routines or rituals (“compulsions”) to try to get rid of the thoughts.
Children and adolescents with this disorder will often repeat behaviours to avoid some imagined outcome. For example, some people who are frightened of germs will wash their hands over and over to avoid catching a disease. These thoughts can also cause a young person a great deal of anxiety. The obsessions and compulsions can take up so much time that the young person can’t lead a normal life.
- Panic Disoder: This is a severe type of anxiety disorder. Teenagers, and sometimes children, are likely having a panic attack when they feel very scared or have a hard time breathing and their heart is pounding. They may also feel shaky, dizzy, and think they are going to lose their mind or even die. The teen or child may not want to go to school because they are afraid something awful will happen to them. Frequent panic attacks may mean that they have a panic disorder.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: PTSD is fairly rare in children. It usually involves a set of anxiety symptoms that begin after one or many episodes of serious emotional upset. The symptoms include jumpiness, muscle tension, being overly aware of one’s surroundings (hypervigilance), nightmares and other sleep problems.
Children and young people with PTSD sometimes also report feeling like they are “re-living” the traumatic experience. These “flashbacks” often include vivid memories of the triggering event(s), which may involve physical, emotional or sexual abuse.
- Selective Mutism: This is a term used to describe the behaviour of children who do not speak in certain situations while speaking in others. Children with selective mutism have a specific worry about speaking, but only in situations that make them feel anxious.
Some children may speak only to their parents, but not to other adults. When they know they are going to have to speak, these children may blush, look down, or withdraw. When they do communicate in such situations, they may point or use other gestures, or whisper rather than talk.
Up to 2% of school-aged children may have the symptoms of selective mutism, and the symptoms usually appear when they start daycare or school. Some children may “outgrow” the condition, but many go on to have social phobia.
What Treatments Are Effective?
Both anti-anxiety medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) – drugs that help regulate brain chemicals, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) have been shown to be effective in the treatment of anxiety disorders in children.
CBT is considered to be the treatment of choice. If an older child or adolescent does not respond completely to CBT, then medications can be added.
Resources
Background Information
Title: The Worried Child: Recognizing Anxiety in Children and Helping Them Heal
Author: Paul Foxman
Publisher: Hunter House Publishers
Year: 2004
Title: Freeing Your Child From Anxiety: Powerful, Practical Solutions to Overcome Your Child’s Fears, Worries and Phobias
Author: Tamar E. Chansky
Publisher: Broadway
Year: 2004
Title: Your Anxious Child: Raising a Healthy Child in a Frightening World [2nd Edition]
Author: Mary Ann Shaw
Publisher: Tapestry Press
Year: 2003
Title: School Phobia, Panic Attacks, and Anxiety in Children
Author: Marianna Csoti
Publisher: Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Year: August 2003
Step-By-Step Guides
Title: Helping Your Anxious Child: A Step-By-Step Guide For Parents
Author: Ronald M. Rapee
Publisher: New Harbringer Publications
Year: 2000
Title: The Anxiety Cure for Kids: A Guide for Parents
Author: Elizabeth DuPont Spencer
Publisher: Wiley
Year: 2003
Title: Your Anxious Child: How Parents and Teachers Can Relieve Anxiety in Children
Author: John S. Dacey
Publisher: Jossey-Bass
Year: 2001
Title: Help for Worried Kids: How Your Child Can Conquer Anxiety and Fear
Author: Cynthia G. Last
Publisher: Guilford Press
Year: 2005
Title: Seven Steps to Help Your Family Worry Less: A Family Guide
Author: Sam Goldstein
Publisher: Specialty Press
Year: 2003
Title: Worried No More: Help and Hope For Anxious Children [2nd edition]
Author: Aureen Pinto Wagner
Publisher: Lighthouse Press
Year: 2005
Videos
Title: Fighting Their Fears: Child and Youth Anxiety
Author: Melanie Wood
Publisher: National Film Board of Canada
Year: 2004
Websites
- Anxiety Disorders Association of Canada: www.adaa.org/gettingHelp/FocusOn/Children&Adolescents.asp
- Canadian Paediatric Society: www.caringforkids.cps.ca/behaviour/fears.htm
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The information in this post belongs to the BC Ministry of Children and Family Development, and the Offord Centre for Child Studies. I do not claim to own any of this information, nor am I trying to profit from it.
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Posted: Fri Jan 14, 2011 11:24 am
Separation and Divorce [pamphlet]
Some marriages end suddenly while others seem to fall apart over a long period of time. No matter what the cause, if your marriage fails, you are likely to feel a whole range of intense emotions: sadness, anger, hurt, fear of an uncertain future, loneliness, confusion over the many decisions you must make, and a sense of failure at your lost plans and dreams.
How you choose to handle a separation is very important because of the effect it will have on the rest of your life. If you do not deal with the pain, and if you allow yourself to become bitter, you will be unhappy for a very long time. Let go of your bitterness and anger. Try to look at the separation as an opportunity to re-examine your abilities, your assets and your dreams, and to make the changes necessary for a new, full and rewarding life.
If you or someone you know is going through a separation or divorce, we hope this pamphlet will help you understand and cope with this difficult period of adjustment.
Things You Can Do
Most people who have gone through a separation or divorce have felt the same way you do not, and most ended up stronger than before. However, while you are going through the experience, you will need coping skills and emotional support. Here are some things you can do:
- Talk to someone you can trust.
Talking to a family member or close friend can give you an outlet for your frustration and anger. Be careful not to burden your children with these feelings. Be sure you can try the person to keep your secrets, so that you can feel free to share your deepest concerns. You may find that a person who has been through a separation or divorce is the best one to offer support.
- Keep a familiar routine for yourself and your children.
It is very important to have a sense of stability at a time of such major and painful change. This is especially important for your children: the more their world stays the same, the better they will be able to cope with the changes they will have to make.
- Keep the lines of communication open with your children.
They need to know that they are not losing the love and support of either parent, and that they are not responsible for your separation or divorce. Talk openly to them about your new living arrangements.
- Stay healthy.
You may find yourself forgetting to eat regularly and staying up late worrying. This could lead to a loss of energy and illness at a time when you need to be on top of things. Keep yourself in good health by eating regular meals and getting enough sleep. You should also try to get regular exercise.
- Learn some methods for coping with stress.
There are many good books you can read on coping with stress, and you may also find some information on relaxation techniques helpful. Check with your local library and bookstore.
- Keep in mind the old saying, “One day at a time.”
Deal with your separation and the unexpected problems and feelings it creates by asking yourself, “What do I need to do today?” Try not to worry about the things you cannot do anything about until next week or next month. When the time comes, deal with them just like the others – one day at a time.
- Avoid making major decisions until your life has become more settled.
Some decisions have to be made quickly, such as housing and school arrangements for the children, and (if you haven’t been working) getting a job. However, you can put off many decisions until “the dust has settled.” It may be good to give yourself some time before deciding on a career change, moving to another community, going back to school, or getting involved with someone new.
- Allow yourself the time you need to heal.
Your family and friends may encourage you to “cheer up” and “get on with life” before you are ready. Generally this happens because people who care about you feel distressed at seeing you unhappy. Although their concern is understandable, you must take whatever time you need to heal. Losing a marriage, no matter how difficult it may have been, still causes wounds, and you will need time to grieve. Give yourself quiet times alone in which you can think, cry, or simply be by yourself.
- Get professional help when you need it.
You will face many legal and emotional problems along with separation and divorce, and you will probably need professional help. For legal matters, seek the help of a lawyer. If you are experiencing severe emotional distress, your family doctor can help you find a counsellor. You may also find it helpful to talk to a member of your clergy for your religion. Make sure you use these services when you need them; ignore the desire to “tough it out” on your own.
Do You Need More Information?
If you or someone you know needs help coping with a separation or divorce, contact a community organization, such as the Canadian Mental Health Association, which can help you find professional help, courses and workshops, and self-help groups for people like yourself.
The Canadian Mental Health Association is a national voluntary association that exists to promote the mental health of all people. CMHA believes that everyone should have choices so that, when they need to, they can reach out to family, friends, formal services, self-help groups or community-based organizations.
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The information in this post belongs to the Canadian Mental Health Association, copyright 1993. I do not claim to own any of this information, nor am I trying to profit from it.
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Posted: Tue Jan 18, 2011 9:26 am
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