How A Bay Area Educational Psychologist Can Give A Troubled Child A New Lease On Life

By Gary Morris


In less enlightened times children that displayed unruly behaviour, that had difficulty learning and reading, that struggled to concentrate on a task and that exhibited socially unacceptable behaviour were deemed as plain stupid, wilfully naughty and often even as abnormal. Nowadays psychological and medical experts know that their is a variety of recognizable conditions that can cause these symptoms and behavioural patterns. A Bay Area educational psychologist can help such children to manage their conditions and to lead normal lives.

Parents and teachers have to be vigilant and they need to be aware of the signs that may indicate that a child is suffering from a condition that can hamper his development. Of course, a single temper tantrum or occasional misbehaviour or even poor results in a test does not automatically mean that there is a psychological problem. However, consistent signs should never be ignored.

Among the signs to look out for is a tendency to talk incessantly, an inability to complete a task and a tendency to flip from one project to another and a very short attention span. Poor academic performance can also be an indicator that the child may suffer from a psychological condition. When in doubt the best course of action is to have the child assesses by a professional. It can do no harm.

Experts in child psychology will insist on an exhaustive evaluation before they will attempt to make a diagnosis. The child will be required to undergo both objective and subjective tests and in most cases it will also be necessary to interview the parents and other care givers. A medical examination is also deemed very important because it is possible that the symptoms displayed are related to a medical condition rather than a psychological disorder.

Many parents think that if their child is diagnosed with a condition such as ADD, for example, the matter can be managed almost instantly by the prescription of medication such as Ritalin. This is certainly not true. Medication can help, but a long term holistic treatment plan is necessary. Some patients do not react well to medication and even when they do, the medication can never be a permanent solution.

Diet, exercise and good sleep are all very important components of a comprehensive treatment program. Just thirty minutes of exercise, preferably out of doors, have proven to be extremely beneficial. Exercise trigger the release of feel good chemical in the brain. A diet that contains enough omega fatty acids and protein is also deemed vital. Parents must ensure that their children get enough sleep.

Regular counselling sessions are also important. During these sessions young patients learn techniques that help them to cope with their conditions and to channel their energy in a positive manner. Many patients also practice disciplines such as yoga and meditation. This helps them to improve their concentration and to focus on a single issue at a time.

Children suffering from psychological disorders can be helped. There is no reason why they cannot lead full and productive lives. These disorders can be managed, just as any chronic medical condition such as hypertension, for example, can be managed.




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