Embrace the Unwind: The Psychology of Uptightness, its Causes, and Surprising Benefits

In the realm of psychology, we encounter a diverse range of personalities. From the laid-back free spirits to the ones who seem to have swallowed an entire do-it-yourself instruction manual, we all know someone who is, well, a tad uptight. But let us not be too quick to judge! As clinical child psychologists, we are fascinated by the intricate workings of the human mind, and even uptightness has its place in the grand tapestry of personalities. Join us on this whimsical exploration as we unravel the causes of uptightness, appreciate its quirks, and reveal how it can actually bring positive changes to a person's life.

Unpacking the Uptight

Before we embark on this enlightening journey, let us define our terms. Being uptight refers to someone who possesses an unwavering commitment to order, control, and precision. They dot every "i" and cross every "t" with a precision that would make a Swiss watchmaker blush. At times, their penchant for structure can be mildly amusing or even endearing. However, it is crucial to remember that uptightness, like any personality trait, exists on a spectrum and can vary in intensity.

Causes of Uptightness

Understanding the causes of uptightness can help us empathize with the perpetually prim and proper. Here are a few factors that contribute to the development of this personality trait:

1. Nature and Nurture Dance
   

   Uptightness can have genetic roots, with certain individuals inheriting a predisposition toward meticulousness and order. Additionally, upbringing and environmental factors, such as overly strict parenting or exposure to excessively rigid social norms, can shape one's propensity for being uptight.

2. The Anxious Adventure

   Uptightness often goes hand-in-hand with anxiety. For some individuals, maintaining strict control over their environment and routine offers a sense of security and reduces anxiety. Think of it as their way of putting a safety net under life's unpredictable trapeze act.

3. Perfectionism as the Culprit

   The relentless pursuit of perfection can fuel uptightness. Individuals who strive for flawlessness in every endeavor might find themselves unable to relax until everything aligns precisely with their high standards.

Surprising Benefits of Uptightness

While uptightness might seem like a burden, it does come with some surprising benefits that can impact a person's life positively:

1. The Master of Efficiency
   

   • Uptight individuals possess an innate talent for organizing their lives with meticulous attention to detail. They transform chaos into a symphony of efficiency.

   • With color-coded calendars, precisely timed schedules, and immaculate to-do lists, they navigate through tasks and responsibilities like productivity superheroes.

   • They accomplish more in a day than most people do in a week, leaving ample time for relaxation or pursuing their passions. Efficiency is their middle name!
     
     

2. The Reliable Pillars of Strength
   

   • Need someone who always walks the talk? Look no further than your friendly uptight neighbor or coworker. Reliability is their superpower.

   • Their commitment to precision and strict adherence to rules make them the go-to people for getting things done.

   • From meeting deadlines to planning events with military precision, they deliver with unwavering dedication and set the bar for dependability.
     
     

3. Zen in the Art of Stress Management
   

   • Uptightness often comes hand in hand with a need for control, and control can be an effective stress management strategy.

   • By meticulously organizing their environment and routines, uptight individuals create islands of calm amidst the chaos of daily life.

   • Their ability to maintain order and structure provides them with a sense of control, reducing stress levels and promoting overall well-being.
     
     

4. Preparedness as a Superpower
   

   • Uptight individuals are the kings and queens of preparedness. They anticipate challenges and plan ahead to avoid potential pitfalls.

   • Carrying a mini survival kit or having a backup plan for every scenario is second nature to them.

   • Their preparedness not only helps them navigate unexpected situations with ease but also instills a sense of security and confidence.
     
     

5. Attention to Detail: The Devil's Advocate
   

   • Uptightness brings with it a keen eye for detail. No imperfection goes unnoticed, no typo goes uncorrected.

   • Their meticulousness ensures that everything they do is of the highest quality, be it work, relationships, or personal endeavors.

   • Their attention to detail often sets them apart, leading to excellence in their chosen fields and garnering admiration from others.

   
   
   
   In conclusion, uptightness is a personality trait that adds an intriguing flavor to our diverse human tapestry. While it may seem like a burden at times, uptight individuals bring their own set of unique superpowers to the table. From their masterful efficiency and unwavering reliability to their ability to find solace in structured routines, they navigate life with an unmatched level of precision and control. And let's not forget their meticulous preparedness, always ready to tackle any challenge head-on.
   
   

   But amidst all the benefits, it's important to remember that uptightness, like any trait, has its limitations. It can lead to heightened stress levels and make it challenging to adapt to unpredictable situations. As clinical child psychologists, we encourage embracing the quirks and strengths of uptight individuals while also helping them strike a balance, allowing flexibility and spontaneity to weave their way into their lives.
   
   

   So, let us appreciate the uptight souls among us, with their perfectly lined-up ducks and color-coordinated schedules. They remind us that there is beauty in order, and that sometimes, a touch of uptightness can bring structure and harmony to a world that often feels chaotic. And who knows, perhaps we can learn a thing or two from their meticulous ways, finding our own balance between spontaneity and structure.
   
   

   Remember, whether you're a laid-back wanderer or an uptight maestro, our diverse personalities intertwine to create a symphony of humanity. Let us celebrate each other's quirks and learn from one another, finding a harmonious balance between structure and spontaneity.
   
   

   And to all the uptight individuals out there, embrace your inner precision, but don't forget to let loose and savor the occasional dance with spontaneity. Life is a beautiful blend of structure and surprise, and when we find the right balance, we unlock the magic that lies within us all.
   
   

   Now go forth, and appreciate the art of unwinding, while cherishing the hidden benefits of uptightness. Remember, it takes all kinds to make this world an interesting and vibrant place.
   

   
   Until next time, may your routines be orderly, your deadlines met, and your hearts filled with the joy of a perfectly color-coded life.
   
   

   Stay quirky, stay fabulous, and keep embracing the dance between structure and spontaneity.

5 Tricky Toddler Behaviors for Parents and Caregivers to Understand

If you’re the parent of a toddler, chances are you’ve seen your fair share of temper tantrums, dealt with hitting or biting, or gotten into power struggles with your child.

While the toddler years are a wonderful time of exploration and development, they also can be trying on parents or caregivers.

One minute your child is being oh-so-sweet and angelic and the next they’re throwing a fit in the middle of the frozen food aisle.

Let’s tackle 5 tricky (but common) toddler behaviors and gain insight into why they occur.

Why Does My Toddler Throw Temper Tantrums?

Temper tantrums are a normal part of childhood development. They’re your two- or three-year-old’s way of expressing big emotions they’re unable to regulate. Young children are not able to express frustration, anxiety, or anger the way older children or adults can because their brains are still immature.

It’s normal for toddlers to throw tantrums because they haven’t yet learned the ins and outs of:(2)

• Impulse control

• Communicating their needs or wants

• Self-soothing

• Delaying gratification

• Problem solving

• Navigating situations with appropriate responses

The good news is, by age three and a half, most children have few or no tantrums.(1)

There’s no such thing as a “tantrum disorder.”(2) But frequent or persistent tantrums may be an indication of a larger issue that needs to be addressed. Children with ADHD are particularly prone to outbursts or meltdowns because they struggle with poor impulse control and being bored.(2) A recent study showed that over 75% of children who had severe temper outbursts also fit the criteria for ADHD.(2) Children with autism or anxiety may struggle with unexpected changes or unfamiliar situations and have a tantrum as a result.(2) And children with sensory processing issues may have a tantrum if they are experiencing sensory overload.(2)  Depression or undiagnosed learning disorders could also be contributing factors to children throwing tantrums.(2)

Emotion-regulation is a skill children need to be taught, just like problem-solving or communicating their needs.

And when a child can’t emotionally regulate, a tantrum, or two other common toddler behaviors, may ensue.

Why Does My Toddler Bite and Hit?

It may surprise you to learn that biting is a common behavior among toddlers. It typically happens when a child is trying to communicate a need or cope with a difficult emotion. For example, your toddler may become frustrated or mad when a sibling takes his toy. He needs to self-regulate and cope with the anger and frustration but doesn’t know how, so biting ensues.

A Few Reasons Toddlers May Bite or Hit:

• They are still developing their impulse control skills

• They don’t yet know how to delay gratification

• They’re overwhelmed and don’t know how to regulate themselves

• They lack the skills to communicate their strong feelings with words

• They don’t understand what constitutes an appropriate response to dealing with a challenge

On episode 13 of Genius Little Minds, I give some tips for things you can do and say when your child has bitten another child. Check out the podcast episode here.

Why Does My Toddler Refuse to Share?

Sharing is tough! Even for adults, it’s sometimes difficult.

It’s not very realistic to expect your 2-year-old to be a competent sharer. They’re just too young to grasp the concept. They’re also lacking language skills to express themselves fully, so they often can’t explain why they just don’t want toshare.

So if your young toddler hasn’t yet mastered the art of sharing, don’t sweat it. This skill doesn’t develop until a child is about 3 and a half or 4 years old.(5)

Sharing is a learned skill, so talking about it (without imposing unrealistic expectation that it will happen overnight) can be helpful. Try pointing out moments in your daily life when sharing occurs, like when you share your food with your spouse or take turns using an electronic device.

Why Is My Toddler Not Seeking Independence?

You’ve probably heard that two-year-olds have a lot of opinions. After all, everyone says they love the word “no”, want to dress themselves and try new things. But what if your child doesn’t fit that description? 

Of course as a parent, you play a huge role in your child’s life. Your behaviors and parenting style have a huge impact on how your child acts and interacts with the world.

Now I’m not here to shame anyone’s parenting... I know everyone is doing the best that they can with the resources available to them. But there are two parenting styles that can either encourage the development of autonomy or hinder it.

Autonomy Supporting Parenting

Also know as Autonomy Granting Parenting, Autonomy Supporting Parenting encourages independence in ways that are gentle and appropriate.(4)

Children with Autonomy Supporting parents are allowed to explore new, non-threatening situations without interference. (4) This teaches them independence and the idea that it’s OK to be themselves.

Protective Parenting

Protective Parenting is “the broad restriction of a child’s autonomy.”(4) And it “can increase the risk of child anxiety development.”(4)

To some degree, every parent is protective of their children. But Protective Parenting can interfere with a child’s discovery or the magical world of autonomy. It can hinder independent exploration and reduce their confidence.(4) 

Interested in Learning More?

Check out this podcast episode for more information on these tricky — but common — toddler behaviors. Learn what to do when your toddler starts to hit the dog… or their sibling. Gain insight into how to handle a toddler who won’t get dressed, and what to do when your child simply won’t. stop. screaming. I also provide a few scripts for what to say to your toddler in these tough situations.

Equip yourself with knowledge and tools to help your child thrive. And be sure to subscribe to the Genius Little Minds podcast so you never miss an episode!

References

1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/tantrum/art-20047845

2. https://childmind.org/article/why-do-kids-have-tantrums-and-meltdowns/

3. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2011/02/biting

4. https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s10802-019-00522-9.pdf

5. https://www.zerotothree.org/resources/1964-helping-young-children-with-sharing

6. https://www.todaysparent.com/toddler/toddler-behaviour/how-to-discipline-a-toddler/

7. https://www.brighthorizons.com/family-resources/articles/e-news/autonomy-supported-parenting

8. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022096513002440

9. https://www.babycentre.co.uk/a1021960/how-to-teach-your-child-to-share

10. https://www.greatkidsinc.org/sharing-is-caringand-a-developmental-milestone/

PTSD Awareness: How to Help a Child Through Trauma

We often think of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as a mental illness that only soldiers suffer from. In fact, it has been referred to in the past as Shell Shock or Combat Fatigue.(1)

While PTSD is common in those individuals who have seen and experienced war, unfortunately, any person who has experienced trauma can develop PTSD.

This even includes children.

So what should you be looking for if you suspect that your child or another child in your life has PTSD? And how can you help them? Let’s talk about it.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of PTSD specifically relating to the trauma include:

• Flashbacks to the traumatic event

• Intense distress when memories of the traumatic event are triggered

• Avoidance of people or places associated with the event

• Denial that the trauma happened

• Reenacting the event

Those struggling with PTSD also tend to experience other symptoms such as:

• Nightmares and sleep disturbances

• Ongoing sadness, fear, and anxiety

• Increased aggression or violent outbursts

• Lack of positive emotions

• Inability to show affection

• Being hypersensitive to possible threats

• Feelings of helplessness or hopelessness

• Loss of interest in hobbies and activities previously enjoyed

Symptoms must continue for at least one month before a diagnosis of PTSD will be given. PTSD symptoms often appear around 3 months after the traumatic event but can appear months or even years after the event.

It’s essential to understand PTSD across the lifespan and how it can look different in children than it does in adults. Many professionals have worked tirelessly to develop diagnostic criteria for PTSD in children that are developmentally appropriate.(2)(3)

Children with PTSD may have unique symptoms such as having problems at school or regressing to behaviors like thumb-sucking or bedwetting. They also may be overly worried about dying at a young age.(5)

Causes

A variety of traumatic events can cause PTSD. These include:

• Sexual, emotional, or physical abuse or neglect

• Being a witness to or a victim of a crime

• Watching serious illness or death in a loved one

• Natural disasters, such as a hurricane or tornado

• Serious car accidents

• Invasive medical procedures

This list is not exhaustive. Any event that is traumatic can trigger symptoms of PTSD in a person.

It’s important to remember that not every person experiences and processes events in the same way. Two people can experience the exact same event and only one person may emerge with PTSD. This is totally normal and does not mean that there is anything wrong with that person. They simply need more support to work through their trauma.

Risk Factors

Some children are more likely to experience PTSD than others. Genetics play a role, along with a child’s temperament. A more anxious or nervous child may be more likely to develop symptoms of PTSD.

A history of personal mental illness or having many family members with mental illness can also make a child predisposed to developing PTSD

Treatments

Psychotherapy

Many types of psychotherapy may be beneficial to treat PTSD. Using the variety of psychotherapy methods available, a therapist or psychologist will encourage a child to speak, draw, play, or write about the traumatic event.(8)  As the mental health professional and patient converse, they examine the patient’s thoughts and feelings to determine the best way to change them for the better.

Many people are hesitant to try psychotherapy but having a non-judgmental, objective person listen to the sufferer can be incredibly healing. Plus, they will also help a person navigate the best way to cope with their symptoms.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is most often the first line of treatment after a diagnosis of PTSD. This type of therapy helps children recognize their thought processes and feelings around the traumatic event. CBT helps a person identify distortions, or inaccuracies, in their thinking that are causing them harm.

Then, a mental health professional will help the child learn how to reframe their thoughts and change their behavior. They learn problem-solving skills and coping techniques to better handle their symptoms when they strike.

If there are other mental health illnesses at play, CBT is a great option.(7) CBT has been proven effective in treating many mental health disorders including anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, and more.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy is another technique used in CBT that gives sufferers more tools to manage their stress.(9) This method may be useful for children with PTSD to understand what emotions they’re feeling, how their reactions affect their relationships with others, and what behavioral skills can help change those emotions and reactions.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Acceptance and commitment therapy is another type of psychotherapy that may be useful in treating PTSD. (9) This technique helps a child become more aware of their thoughts and feelings and works towards acceptance of them. Then, the mental health professional will encourage the child to commit to specific changes that will increase their ability to cope with their feelings and adjust better in stressful situations.  

Supportive Psychotherapy

Supportive psychotherapy focuses on improving both a sufferer’s symptoms and their self-esteem.(10) The mental health professional is a source of comfort, support, and empathy to the child as they examine their emotional responses and behaviors. Praise, reassurance, and encouragement are used to help the child feel more comfortable with their emotions.

Medication

If a child is not experiencing improvements in their symptoms with therapy, medications may be prescribed as the next option. The use of medications in children should be used sparingly and under the careful supervision of mental health and medical professionals.

PTSD Awareness Month in the US

June marks PTSD Awareness Month in the United States. The goals of this event include raising awareness, understanding PTSD, and getting support. There’s an activity you can complete every day in June or you can join the Virtual Walk, walking 30 minutes every day to raise awareness for PTSD.

To check out more of the resources and events available, visit: https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/awareness/index.asp

PTSD affects about 4% of people worldwide.(6) It is dark and scary, but it does not have to be tackled alone.

Children experiencing PTSD need us to come alongside them and support them through this difficult illness. With the right treatment, full recovery is possible.

Check out my podcast, Genius Little Minds, for more information on topics such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder. You can even submit questions you have about your own children at the bottom of this page!

Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter to stay up to date on all my latest blogs and podcast episodes.

References

1. https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/articles/history-of-ptsd/

2. De Young, A.C., Landolt, M.A. PTSD in Children Below the Age of 6 Years. Curr Psychiatry Rep 20, 97 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-018-0966-z

3. Pate, Kailey Marie, "A Comprehensive Review of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Children" (2020). USF St. Petersburg campus Honors Program Theses (Undergraduate) https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/honorstheses/263

4. https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/ptsd.html

5. https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=post-traumatic-stress-disorder-in-children-90-P02579

6. https://library.neura.edu.au/ptsd-library/epidemiology-ptsd-library/prevalence-epidemiology-ptsd-library/worldwide-prevalence/

7. https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioral

8. https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/understanding#:~:text=Psychotherapy%20is%20a%20collaborative%20treatment,objective%2C%20neutral%2C%20and%20nonjudgmental.

9. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/psychotherapy/about/pac-20384616#:~:text=Psychotherapy%20is%20a%20general%20term,%2C%20feelings%2C%20thoughts%20and%20behaviors.

10. https://med.unr.edu/psychiatry/resources/supportive-psychotherapy#:~:text=Supportive%20psychotherapy%20is%20a%20kind,improve%20self%2Desteem%20and%20skills.

Mental Illness in Children: Is It Just a Phase or Something More?

When you hear the phrase “mental illness” what comes to mind? If you think about managing your own mental health or the psychological issues other adults in your life are navigating, you’re not alone.

Often mental health—and on the flipside, mental illness—are seen as things only adults have to manage. But the truth is, one in six children will experience a mental health disorder in any given year.(1)

The number of children and teens battling mental health issues without proper treatment is staggering. 

The teenage years are hard enough as it is—on both teens and parents. What with the raging hormones, the increased importance of friends over family, and the pressures to perform well in school—it’s easy to chalk up mood swings or changes in behavior to growing up. 

Every day, I see families just like you, struggling to understand the challenges their children are going through. You may be wondering whether your child or adolescent is exhibiting signs of a larger issue or is just “being a child” or just “going through a phase.” Educating yourself on the signs and symptoms of childhood mental health concerns is a helpful first step. 
 

How Do I Know if My Child Has a Disorder?

Half of all mental illnesses begin by the time a child turns 14. And 1 in 10 children between the ages of 5 and 16 meets the criteria for mental illness but only 30% receive appropriate early intervention.(2) 

I’m not sharing these statistics to scare you. 

I firmly believe that with this knowledge, you can better serve your family. 

“Mental illness” or “mental health disorder” can sound really scary. But with proper management and treatment, children with these challenges can overcome them or learn to manage them over time.  

Many children with mental health diagnoses go on to live happy, healthy lives when given the appropriate treatment, support, and early interventions. (Doesn’t that make you want to run, not walk, to next available therapy appointment?)

If your family is going through a tough time right now, know that you are not alone. It can be hard on parents and children to navigate an undiagnosed mental health disorder. (And parenting is a really tough job to begin with!) 

But as a parent, you play a vital role in getting your child the help they need. If your child is displaying difficulties in school, with friends, or at home, there are signs and symptoms of potential mental health concerns to watch out for. Consider keeping a record or journal so you can describe your child’s behaviors to a professional if and when you decide intervention and treatment is necessary.

4 Common Diagnoses Children Receive: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and ASD

Childhood ADHD, anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorder may present differently than adult diagnoses. It’s important to recognize the signs and understand treatment options to get your child the best care possible.

By being aware of the signs and symptoms, you can be your child’s biggest cheerleader on the road to mental health.

ADHD

Are you tired of repeating the same directions to your child over and over again, only to have them forget what you just said or simply not follow instructions? Is it impossible to get your child out the door on time? And do you get calls from school because they’ve forgotten their homework again? 

Often children with ADHD get labeled as naughty or lazy. But the truth is, ADHD is a chronic condition that children need help managing. A mental health diagnosis like ADHD is neither something you (the parent) caused, nor is it your child’s fault. 

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental health disorders in children. In the UK it’s estimated that 3.6% of boys and around 1% of girls between the ages of 5 and 15 meet the criteria for ADHD,(3) and in the US, 12% of boys and 5.6% of girls between the ages of 2 and 17 have been diagnosed with ADHD.(4)

Children with ADHD may struggle in school and have trouble making friends. ADHD can impact every area of your child’s life—from social situations to academics to home life. 

Thankfully, ADHD, like other mental health concerns, can be managed. With the right treatment, interventions, and support at home, your child can manage the symptoms of their ADHD so they don’t impede performance in school or work or their ability to maintain close relationships.

Understanding your child’s difficulties will help grow your bond and cultivate a climate of support and empathy within the family system. 

Anxiety

Does your child have frequent nightmares, headaches, or cry easily and often? Are you always taking them to the doctor, trying to figure out why they feel sick to their stomach all the time? Or does your child want to retract into their shell like a turtle every time a stranger talks to them? 

These are all signs your child could suffer from anxiety. 

(Feeling anxious just reading this? Stop. Take a deep breath in, and exhale slowly. Unlock your jaw and roll your shoulders back. Feel a bit better? With the right tools, you can become a calming guide for your child and tackle the anxiety together.)

Anxiety disorders are a range of mental health conditions causing intense feelings of worry and fear. It's normal for children to feel worried from time to time, but when a child has an anxiety disorder, their worry and fear is pervasive and difficult to manage without proper guidance.

Many children will develop some kind of anxiety. In the UK, anxiety affects anywhere from 5 to 19% of children and adolescents.(12) And in the US, approximately 7% of children between the ages of 3 and 17 have been diagnosed with anxiety.(13)

As a parent, it can be difficult to figure out how serious a problem is, especially because children do get afraid from time to time and often struggle to verbalize how they’re feeling. If the anxiety and worry causes your child significant distress and makes it difficult for them to engage in everyday activities then it’s likely they need treatment.

Depression

Is your child no longer interested in doing the things they love the most? Is Eeyore the character they identify with from Winnie the Pooh? 

As hard as it may be to believe, children as young as 3 years old can suffer from depression.(14)

But depression in children looks slightly different than depression in adults, which is why it’s so important to be aware of the differences. Some of the symptoms overlap, such as feeling sad for most days or feeling worthless. But in children, depression can also display as temper tantrums or difficulties in school. 

If your child is no longer interested in participating in activities they once enjoyed, like sports or music lessons, you may be thinking, “aren’t they just growing up?” But reduced interest in activities and withdrawal from friends could indicate a larger problem, especially if coupled with other symptoms like changes in sleep patterns. 

It’s normal for children to get sad or feel down sometimes. But depression is a serious mental illness that, if not treated, can result in devastating consequences. If symptoms last for two weeks or more, it may be time to seek treatment. 

Like other mood disorders and mental health issues, getting your child the support they need will help them feel better faster and reduce the risk of developing depression that lasts into adulthood. If your child repeatedly says or thinks negative things about themselves, or tells you they feel sad, hopeless, or helpless, they might be depressed and professional help should be sought out. By having this information in the back of your mind, you’ll be better equipped to help your child when they are struggling with depression. And there’s nothing more satisfying than getting your child on the road to health and seeing them smile again.
 

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Have you spent countless hours listening to your child talk obsessively about a single topic, like the migratory birds of North America­? Or does your child just know when you’ve changed the brand of peanut butter on them? Maybe you wish your child would look you in the eye with those baby blues you love so much? 

Children with autism spectrum disorder may have very focused interests, struggle to interact with others, display repetitive or restrictive behaviors, or have sensory sensitivities.  

Often children with ASD have trouble managing their emotions and have a comorbid, coexisting disorder like anxiety. They can also be wildly fun, creative, interesting and joyful. By understanding your child with autism spectrum disorder, you won’t be putting them in a single box. You’ll be advocating for them so they have the full range of experiences other children have. 

It is estimated that 1 in 100 children in the UK have autism spectrum disorder (ASD).(15) Like ADHD, autism spectrum disorder is a chronic condition, meaning it lasts throughout a person’s lifetime, but with the right treatment and interventions, it too can be managed. 

As a “spectrum” disorder, ASD can be difficult to identify because the type and severity of symptoms varies so widely. 

There are so many resources for children with ASD these days. You don’t have to navigate this (or any diagnosis) alone.

 

What Should I Do if I Suspect My Child Has a Mental Health Disorder?

There’s no shame in thinking your child has an undiagnosed mental health condition requiring treatment. The most helpful thing you can do as a parent is support your child through their difficulties—not shaming or blaming them (or yourself!) and seek professional help from a licensed therapist or mental health counselor. 
 

Is It Time to Seek Out Treatment for My Child?

Many families struggle with childhood mental health issues. You haven’t failed as a parent if your child has anxiety or depression or other difficulties requiring treatment. If your child displays any of the symptoms outlined above or has other symptoms which cause significant distress and disrupt their ability to engage in everyday activities—then it's likely time to seek treatment. 

Children don’t grow out of mental health issues. And symptoms can get worse over time if they aren’t treated.With the right treatment and intervention from a professional, however, the issues your child is facing may not become a life-long mental illness.

Coming to terms with the fact that your child could have a mental health disorder can feel daunting. But seeing your child benefit from treatment—managing their mental health concerns, overcoming their fears, regulating their emotions, and interacting differently with the world—will make it all worthwhile. 

It can be overwhelming to navigate these issues alone. The good news is, help is available. I’m Dr. Madeleine Vieira, a licensed clinical child psychologist, and I talk about these 4 mental health diagnoses—ADHD, anxiety, depression and ASD—and how they present in children, in more detail, in the first episode of my podcast, Genius Little Minds. 

Listen to the podcast here to get more in-depth information on symptoms and treatment options, and subscribe to stay up to date with the latest in children’s mental health. 

Make the space to educate yourself on childhood mental health. You and your family will be glad you did!
 

References

1. (2021, August). Children and Young People. Mental Health Foundation. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/a-to-z/c/children-and-young-people

2. Mental Health Statistics: Children and Young People. Mental Health Foundation. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/statistics/mental-health-statistics-children-and-young-people

3. Holden, S. E., Jenkins-Jones, S., Poole, C. D., Morgan, C. L., Coghill, D., & Currie, C. J. (2013). The prevalence and incidence, resource use and financial costs of treating people with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in the United Kingdom (1998 to 2010). Child and adolescent psychiatry and mental health, 7(1), 34. https://doi.org/10.1186/1753-2000-7-34

4. (2021, September). Data and Statistics About ADHD. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/data.html

5. Rucklidge J. J. (2010). Gender differences in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. The Psychiatric clinics of North America, 33(2), 357–373. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psc.2010.01.006

6. Sayal, K., Prasad, V., Daley, D., Ford, T., & Coghill, D. (2018). ADHD in children and young people: prevalence, care pathways, and service provision. The lancet. Psychiatry, 5(2), 175–186. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(17)30167-0

7. Faraone, S. V., Sergeant, J., Gillberg, C., & Biederman, J. (2003). The worldwide prevalence of ADHD: is it an American condition? World psychiatry : official journal of the World Psychiatric Association (WPA), 2(2), 104–113.

8. (2021, September). Research on ADHD. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/research.html

9. (2021, March). Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Causes of ADHD. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/adhd-causes

10. (2021, December). Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: ADHD. NHS. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/

11. Oudin, A., Frondelius, K., Haglund, N., Kallen, K., Forsberg, B., Gustafsson, P., & Malmqvist, E. (2019). Prenatal exposure to air pollution as a potential risk factor for autism and ADHD. Environment International, (133), 1-7.

12. (2020, September). Anxiety disorders in children. NHS. https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health/anxiety-disorders-in-children

13. (2021, March). Data and Statistics on Children’s Mental Health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/data.html

14. Doheny, K. Depression Affects Kids as Young as 3. Medicine Net. https://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=116548

15. (2021, September). Autism Spectrum Disorder. BMA. https://www.bma.org.uk/what-we-do/population-health/improving-the-health-of-specific-groups/autism-spectrum-disorder