Treatments

Anxiety is the most common symptom experienced by children and adults in the general community. Anxiety disorders encompass a variety of different diagnoses, including, social anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and generalised anxiety disorder. Anxiety symptoms can present differently in children, compared to adults. Anxiety is often closely associated with other conditions, such as, ADHD or ASD and can sometimes also "mask" conditions, such as, mood disorders or ADHD. Hence, it is essential to complete a thorough assessment, prior to developing a treatment plan.

Moderate to low level (function) ASD tends to be initially seen and assessed by other specialists, particularly paediatricians. However, the increasing frequency of high level (function) ASD presenting or co-existing with another disorder, such as anxiety, depression or ADHD means that it is not uncommon for a child psychiatrist and psychologist to be involved in aspects of the assessment and treatment process. The best possible outcome, in the care of young people with ASD, is the education and involvement of family, support groups / organisations, as well as, rational and careful use of medication to target specific symptoms and behaviour.

Psychotic disorders, include symptoms induced by drug use (such as cannabis, hallucinogens) and Schizophrenia. Psychotic disorders are rarely seen in childhood, with the incidence peaking in late adolescence/ young adult years. Important aspects of treatment of psychotic disorders include, educating the young person and their family about the nature of the illness, relapse prevention, and anti-psychotic medication.

Mood disorders comprise Depressive illnesses or Bipolar Affective disorders. While mood disorders can present differently in children, compared with adults, Bipolar disorder generally has a lower prevalence in children. Mood disorders are associated with a significant risk of self harm, suicide, other mental health and medical problems, as well as, substance use. As such, people who experiences difficulties with their mood require careful and thorough assessments to ensure a timely diagnosis and appropriate intervention.

ADHD is usually a childhood diagnosis, although, it is not uncommon for a young or older adult to present with symptoms that have been present earlier (less than 11 years old). ADHD symptoms range from increased physical / mental activity, difficulties with concentration/ memory, social/ behavioural difficulties to problems carrying out complex tasks and language difficulties. It is important to note that symptoms can sometimes be masked by a variety of factors, such as, intellect, home/ family/ school environments, co-morbidities etc. Due to the complex and varied nature of ADHD presentations, assessment and treatment should ideally take a multi-factorial approach, utilising behavioural and psychological interventions, as well as, medication (if/as required).

• Eating Disorders

• Speech and Language Disorders

• Attachment Disorders

• Family/ Relational Difficulties

• Developmental and Learning Disorders

• Somatoform Disorders (psychological distress masked as physical symptoms)