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Are you chronically late for meetings, have difficulty getting your projects completed, or have a hard time sitting at a desk for any length of time? If so, ADD may be the driving force. While most often diagnosed during childhood due to school and behavior issues, ADD/ADHD doesn’t just disappear in adulthood. Thus, having untreated ADD can cause some problems in the workplace for many people. ADD brains work differently in certain respects, and while there are several potential challenges, there are also some amazing gifts. On the bright side, people with ADD can be: ADD brains work differently in certain respects, and while they have several challenges, there are also some amazing gifts, such as spontaneity, enthusiasm, creativity, and the ability to generate new ideas.
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8 CHALLENGES FOR ADD AT WORK

If people with ADD are able to surround themselves with support staff who manage the details of their projects and help keep them organized, they can be very successful. However, not everyone has that luxury. Research has found that it is not unusual for many with ADD to struggle with a number of challenges at work, particularly the following ones:

1. The Harder You Try, the Harder it Gets

And it isn’t exactly your fault because it’s actually how your brain works. When people with ADD concentrate, blood flow decreases in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), the part of the brain that is vital for staying focused. This makes it harder to stay on task. Helpful hint:  Set a timer for every 60 or 90 minutes and take a quick break to move around a little and get your blood flowing again. Then get right back to the project you were working on.

2. Procrastination

Do you wait right up until the deadline to get started on a project? Sometimes projects can seem really overwhelming, so people may put them off as long as possible. On one hand, that shortened timeline gets the adrenaline flowing to help motivate you, but on the other hand, waiting until the last minute can cause problems for yourself and others. You’re more likely to make mistakes when rushed and if you’re working on a team project it can interfere with the productivity of others. Helpful hint: Break up your project into smaller tasks and focus on one at a time, rather than feeling like it’s a giant ball of twine you have to untangle all at once.

3. Distractibility

It can be very challenging for ADD brains to filter out voices, noise, and other things going on around them—including what’s happening on their smartphone. They also have a tendency to daydream and get caught up in their own busy mind. These distractions interfere with the ability to pay attention and follow directions, which of course are detrimental to productivity. Helpful hint: Try using a white noise machine or earbuds to minimize distractions from the sound around you. Also, turn off the notification beep for your email and set a timer to check and respond to your inbox once per hour instead.

4. Impulsivity

The PFC is supposed to function as the brakes of the brain, but with ADD, this part of the brain tends to be underactive, and your brakes don’t work as well as they should. Often, this lends itself to interrupting others or speaking before thinking—and in the workplace that can be problematic. Blurting out something without taking a moment to process the thought can offend or irritate coworkers, customers, or even the boss. Helpful hint: Start paying attention to how your body feels when you have the urge to respond instantaneously to something and practice counting to 10 before responding. This can help you get control of your mouth, so you don’t put your foot in it.

5. Forgetfulness

When you have a busy and spontaneous brain, memory can be an issue. Missed deadlines, forgotten reports, and steps not completed because you didn’t remember how to do them or even that you were supposed to do them, all can adversely impact your success at work. Helpful hint: When you’ve been assigned a new task or project, write out all the necessary steps and use your computer or phone reminder functions to help you stay on track.

6. Disorganization

This is one of the hallmarks of ADD. Does your office have piles of stuff that make others wonder how you can find anything at all? This can be very challenging for your work because of how easy it is to lose track of important papers you need and the excessive time it takes to find things—both of which can lead to being inefficient at your job. In addition, a messy workspace is very distracting and can make it even harder to focus. Helpful hint: Shred or recycle papers you don’t need—as soon as you are finished with them—so they don’t end up in a pile. For all others, scan and file documents electronically, or if appropriate, put them in clearly labeled file folders in your desk drawer.

7. Chronic lateness

Losing track of time can cause big problems at work. Not making deadlines, regularly showing up late to meetings, and not getting to work on time are red flags for many supervisors. Whether it’s due to disorganization, overscheduling yourself, or not getting up early enough, a lack of timeliness can lead to job loss. Helpful hint: Set meeting reminders to beep 10 minutes and 5 minutes prior to when you need to depart for each meeting and give yourself adequate time to get there. Even if it’s an online meeting, use the same reminders to get logged in before the start time. Also, set your alarm clock so that you have plenty of time to get ready for work and prepare any lunch food the night before, so you don’t waste time in the morning.

8. Restlessness

Many (but not all) people with ADD are naturally restless or hyperactive. It can be very hard to sit still and do desk work or stay in one place for any length of time. This urge to move around can be difficult to harness, so if you can’t switch careers to one that offers more movement and novelty, try building more motion into your day. Helpful hint: To avoid being fidgety during meetings, take notes to keep your mind focused and your hand busy. Also, schedule short intermittent breaks throughout the day to get some quick exercise, such as a power walk around the block or a few laps up and down the stairs to help burn off some of that excess energy. Job problems are quite common in people with untreated ADD; however, with some natural solutions, you really can improve the behaviors and habits that keep getting in your way at work. Depending on which of the 7 Types of ADD a person has, the proper diet, adequate exercise, simple supplements, and other lifestyle changes can make a huge difference in getting control of your brain, so you can be successful in your career and the goals that lay ahead! ADD and other mental health issues can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your mental well-being is more important than ever, and waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. By Neha Kansara, MD The month of May is marked by Mother’s Day, a time when we collectively celebrate the joys of motherhood. But for many women, being a mom or becoming one is fraught with emotional upheaval. As a specialist in women’s health and perinatal/reproductive psychiatry, I have seen that women can struggle at every phase of the process—fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum. Here are some strategies I use with my patients to help them achieve better emotional balance in their motherhood journey.

Coping with the Stress and Anxiety of Fertility Issues

As I say to my patients who are feeling overly stressed or anxious about fertility problems, “It comes easy and very naturally to many, but you may not be one of those many.” I typically remind these women that even though becoming pregnant may not be as easy and natural as it is for others, believing in the power of being a woman and having the confidence that their body can create a human being should keep them going. My recommendation to these women is to avoid letting the stress of infertility take over their life. Focusing on the stress creates even more stress and leads to feelings of anguish, frustration, and a sense of being a failure. This leads to grief and a sense of loss. One of my favorite sayings is: “Always remember that difficult roads lead to beautiful destinations!” When a woman has faith and believes in the process, it enhances the ability to create the magic and have a miracle baby.

Dealing with the Emotional Ups and Downs of Pregnancy

Some women hit the pregnancy jackpot and feel like a million bucks from the day of conception until the time they deliver. They’re the lucky ones. However, there are so many others who are bedridden due to complications, such as first trimester morning sickness, spotting that leads to fears of losing a baby, second trimester gestational diabetes, third trimester fatigue or pre-eclampsia, and so on. When pregnancies don’t go smoothly, it can give birth to mood instability, anxiety, anticipated apprehension, and catastrophic thinking. When I see patients like this, I suggest that they create an open line of communication with their obstetrician, so they feel assured that both they and their unborn fetus are in good hands. Secondly, I recommend practicing positive affirmations, breathing exercises, prenatal yoga, and meditation because they are useful tools that help calm pregnancy-related fears and anxiety. Last but not least, mothers-to-be do not need to go it alone in this journey. It’s important for pregnant women to seek support from close friends and family and to ask for professional help if needed.

Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders

The first 3 months postpartum are the most difficult phase and time in a mother’s life. It’s so challenging, it has earned the term “the fourth trimester.” For some women, this stage may last much longer than a trimester, lingering on for 2 years or even more. During this phase when they are caring for a newborn, moms are trying to be the best version of themselves while also attempting to be attentive to everyone else’s needs the way they used to—all while dealing with sleep deprivation. This is also a phase that can be particularly challenging for maternal mental health. Postpartum symptoms, also known as PMADs (perinatal mood and anxiety disorders), can include a constellation of symptoms that are negatively influenced by hormonal imbalances, sleep deprivation, pre-morbid conditions, lack of support, difficulties in breastfeeding, and much more. For some women, a sense of pressure to be the BEST IDEAL MOM adds even more stress and contributes to postpartum depression, anxiety, trauma, and more. I always ask new moms to pose this question to themselves: “Will I be able to create the same balance I had achieved before, and if not, what’s the worst that can happen?” Helping women walk themselves through this process to unburden themselves of the pursuit of perfection and to believe in themselves helps them succeed in feeling more joy in motherhood.

Dr. Kansara’s 7 Healing Solutions for Perinatal Mental Health Issues

Here are 7 solutions I recommend to nearly all of my patients who are experiencing emotional challenges related to motherhood.
  1. The golden rule to always keep in mind: DO NOT SUFFER IN SILENCE AS YOU ARE NOT ALONE!
  2. Take time out for yourself even if it is just 10-15 minutes a day. You need to breathe deeply and heal yourself first. Self-healing is extremely important in this journey.
  3. Try to incorporate a healthy diet, adequate hydration, meditation, and exercise.
  4. Take daily walks whenever possible.
  5. Practice daily post-natal yoga.
  6. Ask for help and remember that there is no shame in that. People will support you when you ask.
  7. If your mental health is suffering and interfering with your daily life or your ability to bond with or care for your baby, you may benefit from professional help. Check the Postpartum Support International for resources and support or for more personalized treatment for perinatal mental health issues, contact Amen Clinics for the best quality of care.

About the Author: Neha Kansara, MD, Amen Clinics Dallas

Dr. Neha Kansara is a double board-certified psychiatrist at Amen Clinics specializing in women’s health and perinatal/reproductive psychiatry. She also serves on the panel of Postpartum Support International. To make an appointment with Dr. Kansara or to make a referral, contact us at 888-288-9834 or on our website here. Is your child or teen displaying physical aggression—fighting at school, pushing and shoving their siblings, hitting the dog, or biting you? It can be distressing and may leave you feeling scared of your own child. Many parents with aggressive, volatile, or hostile kids are at a loss to correct the behavior. You may have tried disciplining them using recommended parenting strategies but without success. When nothing seems to work in terms of overcoming physical aggression, it’s time to look for hidden causes.

Here are 8 underlying factors that can trigger aggression in children and teens.

1. ADD/ADHD

In kids and teens with ADD/ADHD, impulsiveness is a core characteristic that can lead to aggressive behavior. These youngsters act on impulse without thinking about the consequences of their behavior and are more likely to get into fights or altercations. Brain SPECT imaging studies at Amen Clinics, which has the world’s largest database of functional brain scans related to behavior, show that ADD/ADHD is associated with low blood flow in the prefrontal cortex. This brain region is involved with impulse control, and low activity here is linked to impulsivity. Fix it: Children and teens with ADD/ADHD can benefit from increased blood flow to the brain with intense exercise, a higher-protein and lower-carbohydrate diet, and supplements that boost dopamine (such as green tea and rhodiola). In addition, it’s critical to know your child’s ADD/ADHD type. The brain imaging work at Amen Clinics has helped identify 7 types of ADD.

2. Mood disorders

Young people with bipolar disorder frequently exhibit aggression when they are in the manic phase. Similarly, high levels of aggressive behavior have been noted in adolescents with depression, according to research in the Journal of the American Academy of Adolescent Psychiatry. Fix it: Seeking treatment for major depressive disorder and other mood disorders is essential, but be aware that there are multiple types of depression. Knowing your child’s type can help you get the right treatment plan.

3. Conduct disorders

This is a serious emotional and behavioral problem that is characterized by aggression, violence, and hostility. These kids may bite, hit, push, or bully others. They may also set fires, exhibit cruelty to animals, or vandalize property. Fix it: Conduct disorder can be manageable with the right treatment plan and family support.

4. Learning disorders and communication problems

Adolescents with learning disabilities or communication issues, such autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or Asperger’s syndrome (now referred to as high-functioning autism), can become anxious or frustrated when they can’t express their feelings. This can lead them to lash out. Fix it: Address learning issues and seek treatment for ASD. Diet can be very important for children with autism, so be sure you know the 5 foods that make autism worse.

5. Head injuries

Children and teens who have experienced a concussion or repetitive blows to the head (such as from tackle football or heading soccer balls) may have underlying damage to the brain. From 2010 to 2015, concussion diagnoses in kids ages 10-19 jumped by 71%, according to a 2016 study by Blue Cross Blue Shield. Areas commonly damaged include the prefrontal cortex, which is involved in impulse control, empathy, and judgment, as well as the temporal lobes, which are involved in mood stability and temper control. Damage to these areas is associated with impulsivity and temper problems. Fix it: Getting a functional brain SPECT imaging scan can help identify areas of damage that can be optimized. Healing the brain after a concussion is possible with a variety of therapies, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), neurofeedback, nutritional supplements, and more.

6. Being the victim of physical or sexual abuse

A 2016 study in the Journal of Child & Adolescent Trauma found that 72% of childhood abuse victims engaged in physical aggression. Fix it: Talk to your children and let them know it’s okay to open up to you about any abuse they may be experiencing. If you suspect an issue but can’t get them to share what’s going on, have them talk to a mental health professional.

7. Drug or alcohol use

Consuming alcohol or doing drugs negatively impacts brain function and can interfere with healthy brain development. This can contribute to poor decision-making, impulsivity, and lack of empathy, which can combine to create aggression. Fix it: If your child has a problem with addiction, get them into a brain-centered addiction treatment plan.

8. Food allergies

In some children and teens, food sensitivities can lead to a wide range of issues, including aggressive behavior, irritability, hyperactivity, anxiety, low moods, fatigue, and more. Some of the most common food allergens include gluten, dairy, sugar, corn, and soy, as well as artificial dyes (such as red dye 40), sweeteners, and preservatives. Fix it: Put your child on an elimination diet by removing these potential allergens for one month. Then re-introduce them one at a time to see if any of them cause a reaction. Aggression and the underlying mental health factors that contribute to it can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your mental well-being is more important than ever and waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Although Damion is almost 21, he isn’t interested in staying long at a regular job. He finds them either boring or unmotivating. Instead, he aspires to be a star on YouTube with his singing and dancing. Ironically, even though he believes he has the talent to become successful on social media, he makes minimal effort to even work on his pipedream. He blames his failure to launch on his mother and stepfather for not understanding and supporting his dreams and their refusal to buy him the equipment he wants to make music. Instead, Damion stays up all night watching YouTube, sleeps until 1:00 pm, and then plays video games and vapes all day long—which is definitely not helping him. Brain images have shown that vaping lowers activity in the part of the brain involved with focus, attention, and other important aspects of executive function. Damion’s mother, Carrie, loves him very much and felt sorry for him because when he was younger, his father was in jail and wasn’t able to be in his life very much. She also felt guilty for frequently needing to move for new jobs she got trying to make ends meet. Because of this, Damion had to change schools regularly and there was limited stability in his life. He also had a terrible anger problem and often fought with other kids, resulting in suspensions from school. When Damion was mad, he would punch walls and throw chairs if he didn’t get his own way—and is still prone to anger when his demands aren’t met. Because of her guilt about Damion’s unstable childhood, whenever he would act out, Carrie would bribe him into good behavior by giving or buying him whatever he wanted. She continues to do this, and even still buys his vape cartridges for him.

Special, Spoiled, and Entitled Dragons

Damion has what Dr. Daniel Amen refers to as the “Special, Spoiled, or Entitled Dragons.” And this is a big problem for the family. However, Damion’s sense of entitlement didn’t develop in a vacuum. In his newly released book, Your Brain is Always Listening, Dr. Amen teaches us about the dragons that breathe fire onto our emotional brain and steal our joy and contentment while driving unhealthy behaviors. He describes 13 different “Dragons from the Past” that stem from the personal stories we tell ourselves based on our experiences earlier in life. Carrie placated her son’s anger by giving in to him, which taught Damion that he was entitled to whatever it is that he wanted. The Special, Spoiled, or Entitled Dragons cause people to believe they are extra special—even more special than others. People who harbor this type of dragon have a strong need for attention, lack empathy for other people, and tend to blame others for their shortcomings. They respond with tantrums, anger, or rudeness when: Carrie, on the other hand, has her own “untamed” Dragons from the Past that largely led to the development of Damion’s unremitting sense of entitlement. According to Dr. Amen, she is dealing with Responsible Dragons and Should and Shaming Dragons.

Responsible Dragons

Those with the Responsible Dragons feel a sense of responsibility for the pain of others and are easily triggered when they perceive someone is in need of their help. Their inclination to be the fixer, caretaker, or codependent person causes them to do too much for other people, who then become dependent on them. This in turn breeds entitlement for the recipient as well as resentment and long-term stress for the person with Responsible Dragons.

Should and Shaming Dragons

The Should and Shaming Dragons arise when a person grows up in a culture of guilt where they might have been humiliated, belittled, judged, or criticized. This can happen if a person was raised in an environment with strong moral teachings, rules, and laws, as well as in certain religions. In these situations, shaming is often used as a strong motivator to get people to comply. Those with Should and Shaming Dragons tend to be triggered by disapproval from someone important to them, such as a family member or a boss. When that happens, it can cause feelings of guilt, distress, and a need to be submissive—among other problems.

The Clashing of Untamed Dragons

Responsible Dragons plus Should and Shaming Dragons tend to spawn Special, Spoiled, and Entitled Dragons. Therefore, it is no surprise that Damion has an inflated sense of entitlement but has very little self-efficacy, yet Carrie is wracked with guilt and worry for wanting him to change. Even though she now sees him as extremely lazy and unprepared for real life because of how she raised him, she can’t seem to stop her ongoing enabling and overprotective behaviors with him. Responsible Dragons and Should and Shaming Dragons tend to spawn Special, Spoiled, and Entitled Dragons, so it’s not unusual for a child to develop an inflated sense of entitlement, but have very little self-efficacy.
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There is hope though! Once Carrie learns how to “tame” her own Dragons from the Past using the strategies Dr. Amen specifies in the book, she can teach Damion how to tame his too. With the support of her husband, it is possible to make positive changes in their lives and help Damion become more comfortable with acting his age and taking greater responsibility for himself. Your Brain Is Always Listening is written by psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and New York Times bestselling author Daniel G. Amen, MD. In this book, Dr. Amen equips you with powerful weapons to battle the inner dragons that are breathing fire on your brain, driving unhealthy behaviors, and robbing you of your joy and contentment. Order your copy here. If you want to join the tens of thousands of Amen Clinics patients who have already tamed their dragons and overcome their behavior problems, symptoms of addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more, speak to a specialist today at 888-609-4318 or visit our contact page here. Being sexually abused as a child is one of the most horrific experiences a human can be forced to endure. Yet this heinous act is far too common, and it often occurs in the home. Research in the Journal of Adolescent Health shows that among children under the age of 18, 1 in 9 girls and 1 in 53 boys will experience sexual abuse or sexual assault. And 75% of adolescents who have been sexually assaulted were victimized by someone they knew well, according to a 2003 National Institute of Justice report. Sadly, the emotional pain of childhood sexual trauma lasts long after the abuse has ended and can have a negative impact on mental health, brain health, and cognitive function. Sadly, the emotional pain of childhood sexual trauma lasts long after the abuse has ended and can have a negative impact on mental health, brain health, and cognitive function.
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Childhood Sexual Abuse and Mental Health

Suffering from sexual abuse has a detrimental effect on a person’s mental health throughout their lifetime. According to findings in the Journal of Psychology, 20%-40% of people with psychiatric disorders have a history of childhood sexual trauma. Experiencing sexual abuse during childhood is associated with a wide range of mental health disorders in adulthood, including:   20%-40% of people with psychiatric disorders have a history of childhood sexual trauma.
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Childhood Sexual Trauma and Brain Health

Not only does childhood sexual abuse take a toll on mental health, but it also impacts brain health and cognitive function. A 2017 study in Industrial Psychiatry Journal found that childhood sexual trauma is associated with negative changes in the structure and volume of brain regions, including the prefrontal cortex, superior temporal gyrus, corpus callosum, parietal lobes, hippocampus, and cerebellum. Two of these brain regions are particularly troubling: This same 2017 study mentioned earlier found decreases in cognitive function and memory in those who suffered childhood abuse. In addition, abnormalities in the functioning of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin (a feel-good neurochemical), as well as abnormal hormonal responses have been noted in abuse victims.

Early Intervention and Treatment Can Help

One of the most promising findings in the research is that intervention and therapies can help. Early reporting of sexual abuse and early intervention can be effective in warding off structural changes in the brain and psychological issues. But it’s critical to know that it is never too late to seek treatment for abuse that occurred during childhood. At Amen Clinics, thousands of patients who were sexually assaulted have improved their brain health, cognitive function, and mental well-being with targeted treatment. Our brain imaging work shows that you can change your brain and change your life… for the better. Depression, anxiety, memory problems, and other issues related to childhood sexual trauma can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your mental well-being is more important than ever and waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. In March 2021, the independent nonprofit organization, FAIR Health, released a report about the staggering mental health challenges children and teens have experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, drug overdoses, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and eating disorders have all been on the rise. The report also found a 334% increase in the rate of intentional self-harm for 13- to 18-year-olds in one section of the U.S. The term self-harm refers to the intentional act of causing physical harm to oneself through a destructive means, but without the goal of suicide. In some cases, it can be an extreme measure such as crashing a car, but more often, self-harm involves burning, head-banging, hitting, severe scratching, skin picking, and hair-pulling, as well as cutting or carving the skin with a sharp object such as a razor blade, knife, or even a paperclip. Cutting is the most common form of intentional self-harm and represents up to 80% of cases. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Psychiatric Disorders (DSM-V), it falls under the category of non-suicidal self-injury  (NSSI). Even in a “normal” year, approximately 15% of teens engage in cutting, with a greater percentage found in college students, although some adults and children also cut. Females tend to self-injure somewhat more than males, and the highest rates appear to be in those who are bisexual, but the reasons for this are still not completely understood.

The Motivation for Cutting

While there are many reasons a young person might intentionally cut themselves, this behavior is largely a maladaptive coping mechanism for kids and teens who are not able—or don’t know how—to express their emotions in a safe and healthy way. Those who cut are often seeking a type of symbolic relief from bad feelings they have or that are difficult for them to manage. Cutting is a maladaptive coping mechanism for people, especially kids and teens, who aren’t able—or don’t know how—to express their emotions in a safe and healthy way.
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For example, someone who dissociates or feels emotionally numb may cut to “feel alive,” while depressed teens may cut to “release” some of their sadness. Among other causes, cutting may also come from feelings related to:

Who’s at Risk?

Self-injury is usually linked to underlying mental health conditions. In particular, it is strongly associated with a history of childhood abuse, especially sexual abuse. Self-injury is also seen in those with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, and addictions, as well as in borderline personality disorder (BPD)—a condition for which emotional regulation is very difficult. Research from the medical journal Encephale indicates that 50-80% of those with BPD engage in some form of self-mutilation, including cutting.

Cutting Can Become Addictive

Because cutting provides a temporary sense of relief to the person doing it, it can become a form of self-medication. The actual pain from the cut induces a release of endorphins—the body’s natural pain killers—which can boost mood or feelings of calmness. However, by repeatedly engaging the brain’s opioid system in this way, tolerance to the pain can build up, thus leading to increased cutting to get the same level of relief from the endorphin response.

Clues to Look For

While cutting can be done anywhere on the body, the most frequently targeted areas are the thighs, wrists, hands, and stomach. It is likely that a young person will try to hide the evidence of this behavior, so if you are concerned about your child or teen cutting, be aware of these clues:

Mental Health Treatment for Cutting

If you discover that your child has been cutting, it can be shocking—even frightening, but it’s important to understand that this behavior is treatable. Letting your child know that you care and want to help her or him find healthier ways to cope with their feelings is a great first step. In addition to possible medication for certain patients, some of the treatment modalities include: Whether it’s in an outpatient or inpatient setting, finding a mental health practitioner who is experienced with treatment for self-harming clients and their underlying mental health issues can pave the way for a healthier future for the young person in your life. Self-harm and other mental health problems can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your mental well-being—and that of your loved ones— is more important than ever. Waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to worsen symptoms over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. At Amen Clinics, we routinely track the reasons why people call our clinics. It helps us understand your pain points and helps us focus on providing you with the information and care you need. One of the most common phrases we’ve been hearing from parents since the pandemic began is that their kids are struggling with “school issues.” This translates into meltdowns, tantrums, anxiety, loneliness, difficulty focusing, and more. Are you noticing these issues in your kids too?

What’s Causing So Many School Problems?

School is such a fundamental part of a child’s life. In 2020, when the lockdowns and social distancing requirements were put into place, parents were scrambling to figure out how to navigate this new normal. Human brains don’t like change. We prefer—and need—some level of predictability in our lives. Children need this even more. When schools switched to online learning, that transition was faced by kids and parents alike. Not only were some of the moms and/or dads having to work from home, but they also became the classroom supervisors too. This helped to give them a close look at the adjustment issues and behavior problems a lot of kids were developing as they accommodated these changes.

5 Unprecedented School Challenges Children are Facing

  1. Many kids are still in either hybrid programs or remote learning for school. This has led to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and disconnection from their friends.
  2. Children are experiencing stress and anxiety from trying to learn in new formats under frequently changing circumstances, as schools continue to adjust their programming.
  3. With few or no extra-curricular activities available for them to do with classmates and friends, it can feel like all work and no play.
  4. Many sports programs are on hold which limits the amount of body movement and exercises a lot of kids are getting.
  5. Distractions are everywhere! Without the kind of boundaries and rules that classrooms usually have, it can be much harder for certain kids to stay focused at all.
While children can seem remarkably resilient at times, it’s important for parents to pay attention to any significant behavior changes they see in their children, especially ones that have been magnified during the pandemic. For instance, don’t overlook behaviors such as these: If you have concerns, talk to your kids about what you see and get them the help they need. Did you know that most parents wait about a decade after symptoms first emerge before reaching out to a mental health professional? The right treatment can make all the difference in the world for getting your kids back on track—even in these trying times. There are also things you can do to support the mental and physical health of your whole family. Most kids don’t see a mental health professional until a decade after symptoms first emerge. The right treatment can make all the difference in the world for getting your kids back on track—even in these trying times.
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5 Ways to Boost Your Kids’ (and Your Own!) Resilience Now

  1. Establish regular schedules and routines—including sleep—that provide daily structure, especially for the kids.
  2. Being sedentary increases depression, so plan times each week to go outside with your family and play a game, take a walk, or go for a hike together. The exercise and bonding will promote happier brain chemicals.
  3. Comfort food might be making things worse! Make sure everyone is getting plenty of fresh produces and clean protein, and don’t indulge in sugary treats—the spikes and dips in blood sugar increases stress, anxiety, and irritability. And avoid foods with artificial dyes like Red Dye 40, which has been linked to hyperactivity and other adverse reactions in some children. You don’t need any more of that!
  4. Limit screen time for kids, who are on it enough as it is. Help them develop new hobbies that involve things that interest them.
  5. Be sure to take care of your own mental health! To be a good messenger, you must model the message, so if you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, or an overload of stress, make the effort to get help for yourself.
School issues, behavior problems, ADD/ADHD, anxiety, and other mental health issues in children can’t wait. During these uncertain times, mental well-being is more important than ever, and waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make a child’s symptoms worsen over time. Love & Logic, the trusted leader for parenting skills, has recently become part of the Amen Clinics family because they understand that having a healthy brain is a requirement for successfully implementing parenting strategies and raising respectful and responsible children. At Amen Clinics, we offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for parents and children. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Raising children has always been a challenge. Parenting in the age of COVID has made everything harder. How can you know if you’re doing it right or getting it all wrong? Based on 30-plus years of child psychiatrists treating children and their parents at Amen Clinics and on the science-backed techniques from Love & Logic, here are 7 parenting mistakes that can ruin your children’s lives and make your life miserable.   Raising children has always been a challenge. Parenting in the age of COVID has made everything harder. How can you know if you’re doing it right or getting it all wrong?
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7 Parenting Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Children’s Lives

1. Notice what’s wrong.

When we get stressed or feel scared and depressed, we tend to zero in on the negative. Focusing on what your child is doing wrong is one of the worst things you can do to them. Kids crave attention, and if the only time you give them attention is when they’re doing something you don’t like, you’re basically training them to become a little monster. The Fix: Notice what they’re doing right. Jim and Charles Fay of Love & Logic suggest writing down “I noticed that…” and then finding something positive about your kids that you can mention to them at least once a day. It could be, “I noticed that you like to draw” or, “I noticed that you shared with your sister.” Follow that up with eye contact, a smile, and a light touch.

2. React immediately any time your child makes you upset.

When your child has pushed your buttons and you’re feeling angry, frustrated, or highly emotional, it’s actually the wrong time to dole out consequences. In stressful times, you’re more likely to yell, scream, or make rash decisions. Modeling this behavior teaches your child to act out in similar ways. The Fix: When your kid makes you crazy, take a deep breath and gather yourself. Let your child know that there will be consequences for their actions and that you’re going to think about what they will be. This way, when you do deliver those consequences, you’ll be in a calm and composed state.

3. Stay on top of their homework.

If you’re convinced it’s your job to ensure that your child’s homework is done, but if you do so, you’re sabotaging their development. When you hold all the anxiety for them, it derails their ability to develop independence and to take responsibility for their own lives. The Fix: Let your children know that their homework is their responsibility, not yours. Inform them calmly that if they don’t do it, there will be consequences, such as their teacher being upset with them. This allows youngsters to hold the anxiety for their own homework and teaches them responsibility.

4. Be permissive.

You may think that letting your children be free to do as they please is a surefire way to make them love you. Wrong! Permissiveness is bad for developing brains. Children need routine and authority. The frontal lobes—which are involved in decision-making, judgment, and impulse control—aren’t fully developed until a person’s mid-20s. The Fix: You need to act as your child’s frontal lobes until theirs develop by being firm and kind and creating structure.

5. Tell your child what to do.

Hey, parents, here’s a tip: you talk too much! So many moms and dads are constantly lecturing their kids and telling them what to think, what to say, and how to act. Sometimes more important than what you say to your young ones, however, is listening to what they have to say. The Fix: As Charles Fay says, “If you don’t want a mess, say less!” At Amen Clinics, our child psychiatrists encourage parents to engage in active listening with your child. When they are speaking, don’t interrupt. Then repeat back what you heard to make sure you understood them correctly. This helps your child feel heard.

6. Skip self-care to cater to your kids.

During the pandemic, parenting has gotten so much harder. You may be tempted to avoid workouts, meditation, journaling, and other forms of self-care so you can focus all of your attention on your children’s needs. This is a big mistake because if you aren’t taking care of your own brain health and physical and psychological well-being, you won’t be at your best to care for them. The Fix: Schedule time for yourself into your day. This will help you feel better, and it also models healthy behavior for your little ones. If they see you taking care of yourself, they will learn that self-care isn’t about being selfish.

7. Don’t worry about screen time.

If you use tablets, phones, or TVs as pseudo-babysitters, you’re in for trouble. Screen time has gotten out of control, and new research shows that using screens for long periods changes children’s brains in a negative way. Researchers at the National Institutes of Health performed brain scans of 4,500 children. Those who had daily screen time usage of more than 7 hours showed premature thinning of the cortex, the outermost brain layer responsible for processing information from the physical world. Other studies show that too much screen time is associated with an increased risk of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and other mental health issues. The Fix: According to Charles Fay at Love & Logic, “Let your kids know that you allow screen time… as long as it doesn’t hurt relationships in the family.” Set limits on screen time and stick to those limits. If you need help raising healthy children or if your kids are struggling with anxiety, depression, or other issues, don’t wait. During these uncertain times, waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make problems and symptoms worsen over time. Amen Clinics has partnered with Love & Logic to bring you the best science-backed tools to help. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for parents and children. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. If your child fell down and hurt their arm badly, you’d take them to the ER or an urgent care facility for an X-ray. The images would help the physician diagnose whether or not the arm is broken and would guide the treatment plan. Broken bone? That’ll be at least 6 weeks in a cast. Just a sprain? That’s more likely the “RICE” protocol—rest, ice, compression, elevation. Without imaging, your doctor wouldn’t know whether or not the bone was broken, and if they made the wrong guess, it could lead to prolonged pain for your child or a bone that doesn’t heal correctly and could cause problems for a lifetime. Why are mental health and behavioral health problems treated differently? In traditional psychiatry, mental health professionals typically never look at the organ they treat—the brain. This means psychiatrists and psychologists must guess when making a diagnosis based solely on symptoms. This results in many children being misdiagnosed and treated with the wrong plan. And that leads to unnecessary suffering. At Amen Clinics, which uses brain SPECT imaging as part of a complete evaluation, we see many children who have been previously misdiagnosed. Based on tens of thousands of patients, here are some of the most common misdiagnoses in children.

1. Symptom: Inattention

Commonly diagnosed as: ADD/ADHD Inattention is one of the classic symptoms of ADD/ADHD. When a child has trouble focusing, is easily distracted, or frequently daydreams, parents and clinicians often suspect that it’s due to this common condition. But not all inattention is due to ADD/ADHD. Some of the other causes of inattention include:

2. Symptom: Sadness, negativity, fatigue

Commonly diagnosed as: Depression All kids go through periods where they feel blue or lethargic, but when sadness, negativity, or fatigue last for longer periods of time, it can be diagnosed as depression. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the accurate diagnosis. Some of the other causes of sadness, negativity, and fatigue include:

3. Symptom: Anxiousness, panic, fear

Commonly diagnosed as: Anxiety Anxiety is one of the most common mental health problems seen in children, tweens, and teens. But having anxious thoughts, feeling panicky, or being especially fearful can be related to many other things. Some of the other causes of anxiousness, panic, and fear include:

4. Symptom: Anger, argumentative, disruptive behavior

Commonly diagnosed as: Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) or Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED) Some kids never seem to outgrow the “terrible twos.” They remain oppositional, have a short temper, and can explode into a rage, which often leads to a diagnosis of ODD or IED. But there may be other underlying issues at play. Some of the other causes of anger, argumentative, and disruptive behavior include: Inattention, sadness, anxiousness, anger, and disruptive behavior in children can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your mental well-being is more important than ever and waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk. As the pandemic and lockdown drag on, kids and teens are experiencing more emotional and behavioral issues. An estimated 1 in 6 children (17%) ages 2-8 have a diagnosed mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder, according to the CDC. And 20% of adolescents and teenagers 13-18 live with a mental health condition, according to the National Association of Mental Illness (NAMI). With the pandemic, it’s getting worse. A recent study in Pediatrics suggests that since March 2020, 14% of children are experiencing worsening behavioral health. Another study in JAMA Pediatrics on 2,330 schoolchildren in China found that after a single month of lockdown, nearly 23% reported depressive symptoms, 19% had symptoms of anxiety, and over 37% said they were “quite worried” about being infected with COVID-19. This means more youngsters may be living with undiagnosed issues that can affect every aspect of their lives—academic performance, relationships, self-esteem, and more. You may be aware of some of the classic symptoms of mental and behavioral health problems in children—hyperactivity, prolonged depression, debilitating anxiety—but there are many other subtle signs that often go overlooked. Especially now, it’s important to be on the lookout for these telltale signs.

Most Common Mental Health Problems in Children

At Amen Clinics, which has treated tens of thousands of children, the most common issues our neuropsychiatrists see in children, adolescents, and teens include: Other conditions that affect young people include: Since the pandemic began, more children are developing symptoms related to these issues and many children who have already been diagnosed are experiencing more severe symptoms.

SUBTLE MENTAL ILLNESS SIGNS THAT ARE OFTEN OVERLOOKED

Pay attention to the following 10 signs that are commonly seen in mental and behavioral health problems.
  1. Changes in sleeping habits: Keep an eye on your child’s sleep routine. Sleeping much more than usual or requiring far less sleep may be cause for concern.
  2. Persistent nightmares: Occasional bad dreams are normal, but research in the British Journal of Psychiatry shows that children who have recurring nightmares or night terrors are more likely to experience psychotic episodes later in life.
  3. Physical aches and pains: Headaches, stomachaches, muscle pain, and other forms of physical discomfort are commonly seen in anxiety and depression. If your child has frequent physical symptoms with no apparent cause, it may be time to investigate.
  4. Difficulty making friends: Kids who have trouble relating to their peers or developing friendships may be showing signs of behavioral or developmental disorders.
  5. Changes in appetite or diet: If your young one suddenly loses their appetite or makes big changes to their daily diet, it could mean they’re having trouble.
  6. Mood swings: You may think moodiness is typical behavior for young people, especially teenagers, but having emotional outbursts, temper tantrums, or crying spells can be a sign they’re struggling.
  7. Poor school performance: Having trouble in school can be a red flag warning that a child is having some form of issue that’s keeping them from performing up to their potential. Taking a long time to complete homework that should only take a short while is another indication that there may be an underlying issue.
  8. Avoiding or missing school: Pay attention if children or adolescents are skipping school, as it can be a sign that something is troubling them. This is also a common sign of substance abuse.
  9. Persistent boredom: Tired of hearing your child say “I’m bored” all the time? Everyone feels bored from time to time, but chronic boredom is associated with mental health issues, like ADD/ADHD and depression.
  10. Argumentative, aggressive, and oppositional behavior: The “terrible twos” when a child says no to everything, stomps their feet, and throws tantrums are cute for a 2-year-old. It isn’t cute in older children or teens. This type of behavior deserves professional attention.
ADD/ADHD—as well as anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions—can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your mental well-being is more important than ever and waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834. If all our specialists are busy helping others, you can also schedule a time to talk.