BACOLOD CITY (PIA)—A mental health worker urged parents to be observant and vigilant in protecting the mental health of their children.
Provincial Mental Health Coordinator Mark Katalbas said behavioral disorders are common mental health issues among children and adolescents.
He said behavioral disorders manifestations include excessive inattention and absent-mindedness and repeatedly stopping tasks before completion and switching to other activities.
They may also show excessive over-activity such as running around, extreme difficulties remaining seated, and excessive talking and fidgeting, he said.
Adolescents may display excessive impulsivity like doing things without forethought, he added.
There are youngsters who may show repeated and continued behavior that disturbs others like unusually frequent and severe temper and tantrums, cruel behavior and persistent, severe disobedience such as stealing.
According to Katalbas, young teens may display sudden changes in behavior or peer relations, including withdrawal and anger.
When these signs are present, he said parents should seek early professional intervention as it could lead to serious consequences like depression.
Katalbas said psychiatrists manage these extreme behaviors and some patients may take years to recover, although the conditions are curable. (AAL/Lljr/PIA6 Negros Occidental)
