Help for Children and Young People With Mental Health Problems.

A person's mental health develops in their childhood and teenage years. A child who grows up with good mental health, is less likely to suffer with mental health problems as an adult. Children and young adults with good mental health will perform much better in every area of their life. Unfortunately, the current society that many children live in has a negative impact on the growth of their mental health.

It is thought that as many as three children in every classroom, in every school has a diagnosed mental health disorder. As many as one in five youngsters under the age of 16 exhibit signs of an eating disorder. Sadly, one in twelve young children self-harm, which results in around 30,000 hospitalsations every year. The sad reality is that around two children under the age of fourteen will commit suicide every year. There is extensive help available for children and young people who suffer with a mental health disorder. However, it is often difficult to get the child or even in some cases their family to admit they may have a problem. Fear of being bullied or stereotyped often stops a young person from coming forward and asking for help with their feelings of depression.

Early intervention is key to helping a child or young person with a mental health disorder. Many adults who suffer from mental illness develop the condition in childhood. Investing in child mental health services is costly for the Government but it can save millions of pounds in the future. If you or someone you know has a child who you suspect may be suffering from a mental health disorder you can visit http://www.youngminds.org.uk/ for more information on how you can help them seek the appropriate help and treatment.  

Signs of Amphetamine Use Vs. Abuse Signs

Amphetamine, also commonly known as speed, is a stimulant most commonly used in the past to keep people awake and to assist people achieves weight loss. Amphetamine is also commonly used in medicines, such as Ritalin, which is used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Is amphetamine addictive? The answer is yes, used outside of medical supervision, amphetamine is highly addictive and prone to abuse. The more a person takes amphetamine, the more likely they are to feel like they need it. Amphetamine has many different “street names” and is a well-known performance-enhancer.

Understanding Amphetamine Dependency and Tolerance

The more a person takes amphetamine, the more likely they are to become tolerant of the drug. This means they will need higher doses to achieve the same feelings, and in some cases to be able to function what they see as normally. Amphetamine is seen as a party drug, with many people taking it at parties and when enjoying nights out. Because some people associate amphetamine with having fun, it is not always obvious to them that they have developed amphetamine dependence. People who have developed a physical dependence on amphetamine may experience depression, anxiety and fever when they stop taking the drug. If a person begins taking more and more amphetamine, this is usually an indication of physical dependence, says a Center for Substance Abuse Research (CESAR) website article. Psychological dependence is often much more powerful than the physical, as the person becomes increasingly obsessed with achieving that initial euphoric high again. A person who is pyschologically dependent on amphetamine may also undergo a change of personality and they may display an increasing preoccupation with taking the drug.

Effects/Side Effects

Amphetamine can make a person feel excited, happy, more talkative and generally more confident. The high associated with amphetamine includes feelings of euphoria, intense happiness and contentment. While the amphetamine high has been likened to that experienced when a person takes cocaine, an amphetamine high lasts much longer. A person may also experience dilated pupils, an increased heart rate and restlessness. Amphetamine is commonly taken by people who wish to remain active for long periods. The comedown from an amphetamine high is also known as a crash and burn. This is because coming down from amphetamine is prolonged and can leave a person feeling depressed, burnt out, and agitated. An increase in appetite is also not uncommon, as are angry outbursts. It is the comedown from amphetamine that makes it so tempting for a person to continue to take it, in a bid to deal with the unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.

Withdrawal and Detoxification

If a person suddenly stops taking amphetamine after prolonged use, they are likely to experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. While it is possible for a person to stop taking amphetamine on their own, their chance of returning to the drug is quite high. This is mainly due to psychological withdrawals as oppose to the physical. A person, who has stopped taking amphetamine alone, must learn to cope with old triggers such as friends who also take the drug. Withdrawal from amphetamine can cause symptoms such as dizziness, anxiety disorders, palpitations and overwhelming agitation. Taking part in a professional detoxification program, allows a person access to the medical and psychological help they need to beat their addiction.

Treatment for Amphetamine Addiction

Overcoming the physical withdrawal symptoms experienced when a person stops taking amphetamine is considered to be the easy part of overcoming the addiction, according to the Ambrosia Treatment Centers website. The strong psychological addiction means it is important for a person to receive a combination of treatment, including cognitive and behavioral therapy. This helps a person learn to cope with the stresses of life on their own, without using amphetamine as an escape. Therapists will also work with people to help them overcome their amphetamine triggers. This may mean avoiding people or places where they used to take the drug. In effect, they are retraining their brain. A person can undergo amphetamine abuse treatment in a hospital, a rehabilitation center or under the care of their doctor. It is also possible for a person to undergo supervised treatment in his or her own home. Improved services means people have a lot more choice now, then in the past, when it comes to the treatment that makes the most comfortable. A doctor will always assess the person to ensure their treatment is suitable for their individual needs.

A Good Book for Parents of Children With Mental Health Problems

I don't often recommend books to people, in particular people I see through my practice. However, I have been reading a book over the last few days in preparation for a speech I have to make, and I am really impressed with it.

A straight-talking Introduction to Children's Mental Health Problems is a really good read and focuses on how many experts believe behavioral disorders, such as ADHD are over-diagnosed therefore taking valuable help away from those children who need it. It also explains childhood mental illness, explaining what is like from both a child's and a parent's point of view.

If you are a parent of a child with mental health problems, I would recommend you buy or borrow this book. It is written so the average person will understand it. I have no affiliations with this book and will not receive any payment from anyone if people do decide to buy it.

Happy Reading

Dr Maddie

Free Email Consultation

We are coming to the worse time of year for many people who suffer from mental health problems and depression. Christmas and all the celebrations that go with it can be hard to understand and accept if you are suffering from a mental health condition. The important thing to remember is to not ignore your condition, simply because you believe you should act a certain way.

I will be running a free email consultation service until January 1st and I welcome emails from anyone who is struggling to cope with a mental illness. I also encourage people who are suffering the negative effects of a past or present relationship to get in touch with me.

If you have a child who suffers from a mental health condition or behavioral problem, I can offer advice and support via email.

Interested parties can contact me at Madeline.Mahoney@yahoo.co.uk

Please allow 24-hours for a response.

Dr.Maddie

Is Your Baby Eating Too Much Salt

Courtesy of Federico Stevanin

Adults are often warned about eating too much salt and why that may be bad for their health, but now experts claim eight-month old babies are eating too much salt too. Nutritionists say the problem is caused by babies being fed too many processed foods, which often include salty flavorings. Cow's milk and bread were also blamed for providing more than the recommended amount of salt in a baby's diet, as well as food including tinned pasta, yeast extract and baked beans.

According to the experts, 70-percent of the babies they studied were eating more than the recommended amount of salt, with some having almost double the amount. High amounts of salt in a baby's diet can be harmful to the kidneys, as well as give the child a taste for salty foods, which can lead to health problems later in life.

However the data in the study, which was published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, was collected some years ago, and health experts argue that awareness of the issue of salt in food has improved since then.

The recommended daily limit of salt for babies up to the age of 12-months is 1g per day. It is also advisable that parents do not give babies under 12-months of age cow's milk to drink.

Facts on Childhood Asthma

Photo Credit: Phaitoon

Asthma is a condition that affects the airways of the lungs. The airways become extra sensitive to certain triggers, like infections, cigarette smoke and dust. The airways then become narrowed, making it difficult for the sufferer to breathe properly.

Childhood asthma is common and is usually diagnosed when the child is around 3-years-old. In many cases, the child will grow out of the condition before reaching adulthood. If your child is diagnosed with asthma, your doctor will prescribe medication to help prevent the attacks and help relieve symptoms should an attack occur. It is very important your child has these available at all times, so make sure he has supplies for school, nursery or any other carer.

Minimizing triggers can help so keep your house as dust-free as possible. Your child’s bed should also be free of toys, especially stuffed animals and other cuddly toys. You should wash your child’s bedding regularly, as this will get rid of dust mites. These are commonplace in bedding and not just restricted to dirty or unwashed bedding. Most importantly, you should enforce a no smoking policy in your home. Cigarette smoke is a major irritant and will only increase your child’s chances of having an asthma attack. Passive smoking means there are also other serious health implications if you or anyone else smokes around your child.

Pregnancy 101

Whether you are a first time mom-to-be or adding to your brood, pregnancy is a special time for a woman. Almost as soon as the test turns positive, your body and life will begin to change as the preparation begins. The sheer wealth of information that will greet you concerning you, your pregnancy and your baby can be over-whelming. However, being as informed as you possibly can be about the nine months ahead will help you feel in control of your body again.

Around 50 to 90 percent of pregnant women suffer from some kind of sickness related to pregnancy according to the Mayo Clinic website. The deceptively named morning sickness can actually strike at any point of the day or night. Some women will experience vomiting, others only nausea and many women do not have any sickness at all. You may find if you do suffer with sickness that certain smells will trigger your nausea. Coffee, Chinese food and engine oil are just a few of the many things pregnant women have complained about making them feel sick. Remedies for morning sickness include dry ginger, crackers and dry cookies. It is a good idea to carry what ever relieves your sickness in your purse so you have something to hand if you feel sick while outside.

Unfortunately, the old adage regarding pregnant women eating for two is not true. In fact, you will be advised to add just an extra 300 calories to your diet during your pregnancy, according to the Healthy Children website. A healthy, balanced diet is even more important when you are pregnant to ensure your unborn baby develops properly. You may find that certain foods give you indigestion or make you feel nauseous after eating them. Cravings are also something, you may or may not experience. Eating a little and often, will ensure you keep your energy levels up. Talk to your doctor about  prenatal vitamins you could be taking, in particular Folic acid which is recommended to pregnant women to decrease the chances of birth defects according to the Healthy Children website.

Light exercise is possible in pregnancy, and is recommended. Avoid exercises which require you to jump, and do not over-exert yourself. Swimming and walking are both easy to slide in to a routine and are beneficial too.

There are plenty of things to avoid when a woman is pregnant, smoking cigarettes, taking drugs and drinking alcohol are the obvious ones. However, there are many others a pregnant woman is recommended to avoid, that can have the same serious consequences. Certain types of fish contain varying levels of the toxin Mercury, which can be harmful to your baby's developing brain and nervous system, according to the American Pregnancy Association. You should avoid eating marlin and swordfish, as these contain dangerously high amounts of mercury. You can eat fresh, canned tuna in moderation, as this contains only small amounts of mercury. Mercury is also present in come household paints, so it is best to exercise caution when purchasing paint and always check the label. Unfortunately, the more common household cleaners are safe to use although, wearing gloves is always recommended.

As your delivery date approaches, you may experience "false labor" pains, also known as Braxton hicks. The pain varies from woman to woman, but usually includes a dull ache in the back coupled with a sharp, stretching pain around the stomach. Unlike actual contractions, Braxton hicks are irregular and not usually painful, according to the Healthy Children website. Braxton hicks are your body's way of preparing for labor.

A birth plan is a list a pregnant woman compiles detailing everything she wants for her labor and delivery. You have the opportunity to create one with either your doctor or part of a prenatal class should you decide to join one. Your birth plan will contain information such as who will be attending your delivery with you, any allergies, preferred labor positions and pain relief. Making a birth plan will help create the best experience for you. Once you have completed your birth plan, pack it in to your hospital bag ready for the big day.