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Understanding Children and Young People’s Mental Health

OCD

The rituals and compulsions associated with OCD affect everyday life for the young,
taking up a lot of time and making everyday life very difficult. Sleep can be limited
due to the amount of time it takes to carry out rituals before bedtime.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

The reactions to PTSD can go on for months and interfere with a child’s daily activities
and living, making it impossible for them to enjoy play and school work.

Psychosis

The frightening experience of psychosis and the accompanying strange thoughts and
feelings can affect a young person profoundly. They may find it difficult to enjoy their
lives and usual activities, as well as noticing effects on their physical health, appetite
and sleep patterns.

Bipolar disorder

The impact of this disorder can result in problems with relationships and interfere with
concentration at school or college. Behaviours as a result of bipolar disorder may also
place the young person’s life at risk as a result, for example, overconfidence in their
abilities, not looking after themselves, increased sexual energy and extreme behaviours.

Prevention

The importance of prevention for all children and young people’s mental health
conditions is stressed with the 2015 Government report entitled Future in Mind
and the NHS Five Year Forward Plan. These documents both recognise that late
interventions place a greater financial strain on the country, as well as being
detrimental to the child or young person. You will learn more about prevention
and early intervention in Units 4 and 5 of this course.

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