Psychology Internships

Mental health conditions in children include developmental disorders such as autism; behavioral disorders such as ADHD; mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders such as agoraphobia and social phobia; schizophrenia syndromes or psychosis; and personality changes due to a general medical condition. Keep in mind that all children are different, so their mental health symptoms might not be like those of other kids. The earlier a child’s mental health needs are identified, the earlier intervention and support can be provided, and the greater the benefits for their overall well-being. It is important to have the help of trained mental health care professionals to help in diagnosis and making plans for treatment with social anxiety disorder.

Anxiety & Depressive Disorders: Anxiety and depression are some of the most common mental health problems that children face. Most common of them is excessive worry, fear, phobias, changes in appetite or sleep, irritability, and recurrent thoughts of death, including suicidal ideation.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): ADHD is said to be a neurodevelopmental disorder, that also affecting each of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. This causes difficulties in children with ADHD to focus, remain seated, follow instructions and control their emotions, affecting their performance in studies and social relations.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): ASD is a developmental disorder that interferes with social interaction, communication, and behavior. The social cognition of a child who has ASD can be described as dysfunctional, characterized by difficulty recognizing social cues, creating relationships, and participating in imaginative play.

Trauma-related Disorders: Children who have endured trauma, such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, or neglect, or who have witnessed a traumatic event, may go on to develop one of several trauma-related disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or reactive attachment disorder (RAD). Symptoms of PTSD include re-experiencing the trauma, avoiding reminders of the trauma, being on edge all the time, frequently experiencing irritation/anger, difficulty in swallowing, nausea, vomiting, and difficulties in attachment with caregivers as seen in Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD); and a predisposition to re-enact the trauma.

Eating Disorders: Eating disorders can affect children and adolescents and may include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Their eating patterns are not normal; they often have a distorted body image and an obsession with weight or food.