A Shy Children is Said to be Mentally Ill
A new guideline for diagnosing mental illness is being developed in the United States. Experts fear the use of psychotropic drugs increases, because in the guide, a shy child is also considered a mental illness.
Children who tend to be closed because of shyness have always been assessed to only need to be given support so that they are more confident. With the inclusion of these properties in the category of mental illness, shy children will need more than just assistance but also treatment.
Of course this is upsets psychiatrist, because psychotropic drugs like Ritalin and Prozac will be more widely used. This year alone an estimated 650,000 children aged 8-13 years has been taking Ritalin, far more than 20 years ago which was only 9,000 children.
In fact, recent research shows that children under six years already received these drugs to cope with Hyperactivity Disorder and Attention Concentration . Long-term effects is of course worrying, because these drugs work in the central nervous system and can lead to addiction.
“In a society that always wants instant results, the use of drugs to alter behavior is certainly very tempting. But there are many other ways that are safer even though it takes more time and energy,” said Kate Falon of the Association of Educational Psychologists, according to the Telegraph.
Other way meant by Falon includes cognitive behavioral therapy. This therapy is conducted through the assistance and can cope with emotional, behavioral and mood disorders without having to rely on medication.
But when shyness is categorized as mentally ill, then the impression will be more severe than they really are so that the tendency to use drugs will be higher. As stipulated in the guidelines, quiet child who is categorized as social anxiety disorder.
Children who tend to be quiet and withdrawn after feeling lost are also categorized as mental illness, namely depressive disorder. Even children who are disobedient to their parents has its own title, which is Oppositional Defiant Disorder.
Recent search: mentally ill childrenTagged with: child mental illness, mental disorder, Mental Illness,
Related Posts
