What it is Selective Mutism (SM) is an anxiety disorder where a child can speak comfortably in some settings (usually at home) but consistently doesn’t speak in others (school, public) despite the ability to do so. It typically starts before…
What it is Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is intense, developmentally inappropriate fear or distress about being away from home or key attachment figures. It’s most common in children but can affect teens and adults. The anxiety is persistent (typically 4+…
What it is Conduct Disorder involves a repetitive pattern of violating rights of others or major societal rules (aggression, property destruction, deceit/theft, serious rule violations). It’s diagnosed when behaviors cause significant impairment. Early, comprehensive, and compassionate intervention is critical. Subtypes…
What it is Oppositional Defiant Disorder involves a persistent pattern of angry/irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behavior, and sometimes spitefulness toward authority figures, lasting at least 6 months and seen across settings (home, school, peers). It typically starts in childhood. ODD is…
What it is DMDD is a childhood condition characterized by chronic, severe irritability with frequent temper outbursts (3+ times per week) and persistently irritable or angry mood between outbursts, lasting 12+ months across settings (home, school, peers). It typically starts…
What it is Cyclothymic disorder involves ongoing mood fluctuations—periods of hypomanic-like symptoms and periods of depressive symptoms—that don’t meet full criteria for hypomania, mania, or major depression. Symptoms last at least 2 years in adults (1 year in youth), with…
What they are Circadian rhythm disorders occur when your internal clock is out of sync with desired schedules: Delayed Sleep–Wake Phase Disorder (DSWPD): “night owl” pattern—can’t fall asleep until very late; hard to wake up Advanced Sleep–Wake Phase Disorder (ASWPD):…
What it is Insomnia Disorder involves trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early—at least 3 nights per week for 3+ months—with daytime impact (fatigue, irritability, brain fog, reduced performance). Short-term insomnia is common; when it persists, targeted treatment…
What it is Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD) involves one or more distressing physical symptoms (pain, fatigue, GI issues, dizziness, etc.) plus excessive thoughts, feelings, or behaviors related to those symptoms (worry, frequent checking/visits, avoidance). The symptoms are real and can…
What it is Illness Anxiety Disorder (IAD), often called health anxiety, involves persistent worry about having or developing a serious disease despite minimal or no symptoms and reassuring medical evaluations. People may frequently seek medical checks or, alternatively, avoid doctors…
