Drug and alcohol addiction and abuse. Recognition. Prevention. Treatment

20/20 Parenting. Recognizing and mitigating early vulnerabilities and risk factors.

Potential Vulnerabilities – Mental Conditions

Chemically, Structurally, or Stress Derived

Unfortunately, when many of us hear the words "mental illness" we think "crazy", "a bit nutty", "loony", "short a brick" or some other misguided and hurtful adjective. Hence our attempt to reduce the stigma by using the word "conditions". Societal misunderstandings also seem to interpret the behavioral symptoms as willful and shameful, as if the afflicted person is able to control their actions or ought to be able to.

To varying extents, the contrary is true. Chemical imbalances and structural irregularities are much more often the case, resulting in challenged abilities that are often treatable (regardless of common opinion). Original causes range from genetic, to brain injury (toxic or traumatic), to chronic or acute emotional stress (scientifically shown to alter brain chemistry) to environmental toxins and allergens. Misjudging only adds insult to injury and undermines self esteem.

High-Risk for Substance Abuse and Addiction

The United States Department of Health & Human Services, Office on Disability states that substance abuse rates are higher for patients with "traumatic brain injuries...or mental illness" (up to and surpassing 50%), compared to the general population (10%).

Early Intervention is Crucial

The longer a condition is left undiagnosed and/or ineffectively treated, the more difficult treatment becomes and the greater the risk for developing unhealthy coping behaviors such as self-medicating with harmful substances.

Perhaps the greatest challenge for parents (and education/health professionals) is in recognizing the difference between "normal" development and the symptoms of various "mental" conditions as they arise, especially during adolescence when many first appear. This is also often the case when borderline (though still potentially devastating). Consequently, we are including the 'mental' conditions that are most often either entirely missed or misdiagnosed due to the many symptoms they have in common. Watch for this phrase under its name heading: "Diagnosis can be confused with: TBI, ODD...." or similar.

We are confident that if your child is having difficulties, a little "sleuthing" will enable you to determine which conditions seem to fit your child's symptoms closest. This will assist you in seeking which specialists to call, or if a referral is necessary, in discussing your suspicions with your family doctor. As always, three opinions are better than one if possible. If you have access to a multidisciplinary health team all the better.