Mental disorders can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. But specific mental disorders may be more likely to affect certain groups of people than other groups. For example, some mental disorders, like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, are more common in children and adolescents than in adults. Dealing with the issues that surround mental disorders can be difficult for anyone. However, young people who must balance a mental disorder with other stresses, like schoolwork, extra-curricular activities, social pressures, and physical changes, may face additional challenges coping with mental disorders. With promising discoveries and developments in psychiatric drug treatments, doctors now have more ways than ever to help patients with childhood and adolescent disorders. In this book, you will read about: •Tracy, who refused to hug or kiss her parents or even look them in the eye. •Kelly, a child with mental retardation who needed schooling but couldn't stay in her classroom because she banged her head against the walls. •Tony, whose undiagnosed and untreated ADHD led him into drug and alcohol abuse. •Carissa, who was sent home from summer camp because of her tics and echolalia. Learn how parents, doctors and psychiatrists were able to help each of these young people cope with their disorders and achieve their individual potential.
