Article on the Overmedication of Young Children

This New York Times article describes a young child given powerful antipsychotics starting at age 18 months. LINK After several years the family determined that he didn't need all of these powerful drugs. His tantrums were caused by his reaction to family stress and speech delays, not mental illness.

A preschooler's behavior problems should not be managed by a pediatrician. Psychologists and psychiatrists, hopefully both of whom are child specialists, should be the key individuals treating mental healt issues for children. Psychiatrists are doctors who can prescribe drugs. Arkansas psychologists cannot. Psychologists work with the family to change behaviors and attitudes.

In addition, individuals with degrees in counseling, behavioral analysis, and social work can help families but have more limited credentials.

For Arkansas families struggling with behavior issues, the biggest problem is finding a child psychologist. Psychological methods take longer and require some effort but can definitely treat a child's difficulties.

LISTING OF ARKANSAS PSYCHOLOGISTS

There is no statewide listing of psychiatrists in Arkansas. Try locating psychiatrists through the following groups:

UAMS Psychiatric Research Institute has both psychiatrists and psychologists.

Mental Health Council of Arkansas is a statewide group of mental health providers.

Arkansas Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health is a statewide nonprofit advocacy group dedicated to helping children with mental health issues.  Please contact them for further information on mental health help in your area.

Comments

[Josh]

Although it is great that the public has an increased awareness of autism, it will inevitably lead to a greater misdiagnosis of the disorder. Either way, a speech impediment should be tended to, and family behavior should also require psychiatric help if problems like this arise.