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How Can I Prevent Anxiety?

If you suffer from an anxiety disorder, you may need professional help. See your doctor for a referral to a mental health specialist.

Though not a treatment for anxiety disorders, the following tips can help reduce symptoms of anxiety:

Take care of your body by eating a well-balanced diet. Include a multivitamin when you can't always eat right.

Limit alcohol, caffeine, and sugar consumption.

Take time out for yourself every day. Even 20 minutes of relaxation or doing something pleasurable for yourself can be restorative and decrease your overall anxiety level.

Trim a hectic schedule to its most essential items, and do your best to avoid activities you don't find relaxing.

Keep an anxiety journal. Rank your anxiety on a 1-to-10 scale. Note the events during which you felt anxious and the thoughts going through your mind before and during the anxiety. Keep track of things that make you more anxious or less anxious.

Interrupt hyperventilation. If you begin to hyperventilate, exhale into a paper bag and inhale the air within the bag. This increases the amount of carbon dioxide you are inhaling, which can reduce the urge to hyperventilate. Inhaling from a bag will help relieve any dizziness or tingling you might feel.

Sources

SOURCES:

Starcevic, V. Anxiety Disorders in Adults: A Clinical Guide, Oxford University Press, 2005.

American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4th Edition, 2000.

Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, New Perspectives for Treating GAD, 2004.

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If you suffer from an anxiety disorder, you may need professional help. See your doctor for a referral to a mental health specialist. Though not a treatment for anxiety disorders, the following tips can help reduce symptoms of anxiety: Take care of your body by eating a well-balanced diet.

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https://www.webmd.com/depression/understanding-depression-prevention#1

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https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/learn/general-information/prevention

Guidance (page 18)

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Panic Disorder Symptoms
https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/generalized-anxiety-disorder-gad

Guidance
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-stop-a-panic-attack

Parent Assistance

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Anxious teens are vulnerable to experiencing a panic attack, which is a frightening experience, especially since it can occur out of the blue. A panic attack is a sudden and sharp rise in anxiety accompanied by physical symptoms such as racing heart, dizziness, numbness and shortness of breath. The physical symptoms are an adaptive response to the perception of being in acute danger. However, they can unfortunately arise under everyday stress, such as when a teen has to take a daunting test. What can you do to help your anxious teen cope with a panic attack?
Label the Panic Attack as Harmless Anxiety
Many teens misperceive a panic attack when it is occurring. They think all kinds of scary thoughts: Are they going crazy, dying, about to faint or having a heart attack? Such thoughts trigger heightened anxiety, which often leads to worsened symptoms. Therefore, it is important to help teens understand that they are not in any danger but that their body is overreacting to feeling very anxious. In short, let them know that they are experiencing a false alarm.
Model Being Calm
Even though teens won't show it, they look to their parents or other adults for how seriously to view their condition. If a parent reacts with great concern, it inadvertently sends a message that the panic attack is serious and potentially dangerous. So, when your teen is in the midst of an attack, demonstrate with both your words and behavior that there is no emergency. For example, you can say, "I know how uncomfortable you feel right now but you are okay and after a while, you will feel better." Most panic attacks subside quickly and most often within twenty to thirty minutes. In the meantime, encourage your teen to ride out the discomfort. Those who help support your teen: a school counselor, teacher or nurse can also reinforce the message that there is no emergency. If you are unsure if your teen has a true medical problem, consult a nurse or doctor so that you can be reassured; then go about treating the symptoms as harmless.
Reduce Avoidance
Teens often avoid returning to the place or places where a panic attack has occurred, fearing that the uncomfortable physical sensations will return. For example, they might resist returning to school if they were dizzy in class. While understandable, this avoidance only worsens anxiety and increases the chance for more panic attacks. So, even though it may be hard to watch your teen suffer, encourage a return to situations that triggered an attack, while at the same time empathizing with how challenging it is to face a scary situation. If your teen finds it too difficult to decrease all of the avoidance all at once, encourage a gradual reintroduction to each situation, starting with the least anxiety-provoking and moving on to the most anxiety-provoking.

Panic attacks typically begin in adolescence and can occur with all anxiety disorders. Notably, once panic attacks are experienced, they can lead to Panic Disorder - a persistent concern with experiencing further attacks, worry about the impact of an attack and a resulting change in behavior. So, by improving your teen's ability to cope with panic, you can potentially prevent the development of a disabling anxiety disorder. If your teen continues to struggle despite your efforts, consider seeking help from a psychologist with expertise in cognitive-behavioral therapy, which has been demonstrated to effectively treat this problem. With support, teens can learn to cope with and reduce their panic attacks.
About the Author
Sheila Achar Josephs, PhD is a licensed psychologist in Princeton, NJ. and the author of Helping Your Anxious Teen: Positive Parenting Strategies to Help Your Teen Beat Anxiety, Stress, and Worry. She specializes in state-of-the-art cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety disorders in children, adolescents and adults. www.princetoncognitivetherapy.com

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Helping Your Anxious Teen Cope with a Panic Attack

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Anxious teens are vulnerable to experiencing a panic attack, which is a frightening experience, especially since it can occur out of the blue. A panic attack is a sudden and sharp rise in anxiety accompanied by physical symptoms such as racing heart, dizziness, numbness and shortness of breath.

# data[].attributes.body
Understanding Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/generalized-anxiety-disorder-gad

GAD Signs and Symptoms
https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/generalized-anxiety-disorder-gad/symptoms

Guidance
Tips to Manage Anxiety and Stress
https://adaa.org/tips

# data[].attributes.body
Understanding and Treating Agoraphobia
https://www.healthline.com/health/agoraphobia#causes

# data[].attributes.body
Tropical Texas Behavioral Health
861 Old Alice Rd.
Brownsville, TX 78520
956-546-2230 or 956-547-5400
Monday - Friday 8am to 5pm
New Appointments: 1-800-813-1233

Services: Case Management, Child & Adolescent Crisis Resolution, Referrals, Counseling, Family Education and Training , Medical and Pharmacy Related, Telemedicine/Telehealth, Respite, Mental Health First Aid

DHR Health Behavioral Hospital

5510 Raphael Dr.

Edinburg, TX 78539

956-362-4357

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

Clinical assessments are provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week and are free-of-charge.

The DHR Health Behavioral Hospital provides therapy and treatment for children and adolescents who may be experiencing disorders of thinking, feeling, and/or behavior.  Their treatment plans include comprehensive psychiatric and medical assessments, group therapy, medication management, and family involvement.  Therapeutic interventions include evidence-based theoretical approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

South Texas Counseling and Psychological Testing
3505 Boca Chica Blvd. Suite 149
Brownsville, TX, 78521

956-455-5983

Ages: 3½ - 19 and adults
Cost per session: $100
Accepts cash, most insurances, CHIP, and Medicaid

https://www.rehab.com/south-texas-counseling-and-psychological-testing/6234513-r

South Texas Counseling and Psychological Testing focuses on helping individuals recover from mental illnesses like bipolar disorder, clinical depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and more. Mental health professionals at these facilities are trained to understand and treat mental health issues, both in individual and group settings.

UTRGV Counseling and Training Clinic

2168 E. Jackson

Brownsville, TX 78520

956-882-7792

ctclinicbrownsville@utrgv.edu

All services provided at UTRGV Counseling and Training Clinic are free.  The clinic offers counseling to individuals six years of age and older in the areas of depression, anxiety, adolescent behavioral concerns, and in many more areas.  Services can be provided individually, as a group, or as a family.

Marianela Caballero
2905 Central Blvd Suite C
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 402-3758
Ages: 11-19 and adults
Cost per session: $100+
Accepts cash, credit cards, CHIP, Medicaid, and insurance

Laura Colon
Colon Counseling, PLLC
1454 Paredes Line Road Suite C
Brownsville, TX 78521
(956) 287-3549
Ages:14-19 and adults
Cost per session: $100
Accepts cash, credit cards, and insurance

Sylvia Chelf
New Leaf Counseling
896 Ridgewood Street Suite D
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 446-0264
Ages: 6-19 and adults
Cost per session: $50-$100
Accepts cash, credit cards, CHIP, medicaid, and insurance

Keely Rodriguez
Mandala Counseling Group
30 Providencia Court Suite 5K
Brownsville, Texas 78526
(956)275-3232
Ages: 14-19 and adults
Cost per session: $100-$125
Accepts cash, credit cards, and insurance

Lauro Guzman
Wellcare Counseling
Harlingen, Texas 78550

(956) 365-2164
All ages welcome
Cost per session: $65-$85
Sliding Scale available
Accepts medicaid and insurance

# data[].attributes.body
Depression Symptoms
https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-types#1

Guidance
Coping with Depression

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
You have more power over depression than you may think. These tips can help you feel happier, healthier, and more hopeful.

# data[].attributes.body
What is Anorexia Nervosa?
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/information-eating-disorder

Warning Signs and Symptoms
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/learn/by-eating-disorder/anorexia

# data[].attributes.body
What is Bulimia Nervosa?
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/information-eating-disorder

Warning Signs and Symptoms
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/learn/by-eating-disorder/bulimia

# data[].attributes.body
What is Binge Eating Disorder?
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/information-eating-disorder

Warning Signs and Symptoms
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/learn/by-eating-disorder/bed

# data[].attributes.headline
Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS) or Other Specified or Eating Disorders (OSFED)?

# data[].attributes.subject
Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS) or Other Specified or Eating Disorders (OSFED)?

# data[].attributes.body
What is EDNOS or OSFED?
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/information-eating-disorder

Warning Signs and Symptoms
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/learn/by-eating-disorder/osfed

# data[].attributes.body
Tropical Texas Behavioral Health
861 Old Alice Rd.
Brownsville, TX 78520
956-546-2230 or 956-547-5400
Monday - Friday 8am to 5pm
New Appointments: 1-800-813-1233

Services: Case Management, Child & Adolescent Crisis Resolution, Referrals, Counseling, Family Education and Training , Medical and Pharmacy Related, Telemedicine/Telehealth, Respite, Mental Health First Aid

DHR Health Behavioral Hospital

5510 Raphael Dr.

Edinburg, TX 78539

956-362-4357

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

Clinical assessments are provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week and are free-of-charge.

The DHR Health Behavioral Hospital provides therapy and treatment for children and adolescents who may be experiencing disorders of thinking, feeling, and/or behavior.  Their treatment plans include comprehensive psychiatric and medical assessments, group therapy, medication management, and family involvement.  Therapeutic interventions include evidence-based theoretical approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

Anna D Gomez
Ebony Center
2905 Central Blvd. Suite C
Brownsville, Texas 78520
(956) 284-6604
All ages
Cost per session: $120
Accepts cash, credit cards, CHIP, Medicaid, and insurance

Sylvia Chelf
New Leaf Counseling
896 Ridgewood Street Suite D
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 446-0264
Ages: 6-19 and adults
Cost per session: $50-$100
Accepts cash, credit cards, CHIP, medicaid, and insurance

Laura Colon
Colon Counseling, PLLC
1454 Paredes Line Road Suite C
Brownsville, TX 78521
(956) 287-3549
Ages:14-19 and adults
Cost per session: $100
Accepts cash, credit cards, and insurance

# data[].attributes.body
Bipolar Disorder Symptoms
https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/guide/preventing-bipolar-disorder#1

Guidance
Coping with Bipolar Disorder

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"A number of triggers can set off or worsen bipolar episodes," says Michael First, MD, a professor of clinical psychiatry at Columbia University and attending psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. The most common triggers for bipolar mood swings are:

Stress from major life events, both positive and negative

Lack of sleep

Erratic schedules

Caffeine and alcohol

Certain medications, such as antidepressants and corticosteroids

Seasonal changes (for example, winter can worsen depression, while summer can increase the risk of mania)

Stopping bipolar meds or varying the treatment schedule

Thyroid problems

Substance abuse

Mood Swings: Coping Strategies
While some triggers - like seasonal changes or a stressful event - may be impossible to avoid, lifestyle changes and mood-management strategies can make a big difference. Try the following suggestions from experts for managing and coping with mood swings.

Control stress. Stress is a major bipolar trigger. Do what you can to simplify your life and relieve stress in your work and personal life. See if your spouse, family members, and friends can help with household responsibilities. "If you have a job that requires crazy hours and lots of travel, you may want to switch to a less-stressful job," suggests Dr. First. Stress-management techniques, such as meditation, visualization, and yoga, can also help.

Keep a regular schedule. Stick to a routine to help control mood swings. "Bipolar people don't do well with lots of changes," says First. Have meals, do errands, exercise, and go to bed about the same time every day.

Practice healthy sleep habits. Being overtired can trigger mania in some bipolar people. Relax before bed by listening to soothing music, reading, or taking a warm bath. Experts also recommend that you make your bedroom a calming place and use it only for sleep and sex. Be disciplined about your sleep habits. "It's common for people with bipolar disorder to stay up late watching movies, playing video games, or surfing the Internet, which can make mood swings worse," says Carrie Bearden, PhD, a bipolar-disorder expert and associate professor of psychology and behavioral sciences at UCLA.

Get moving. Studies show that regular exercise can help improve mood. Start slowly by taking a walk around the neighborhood. Gradually work up to exercising on most days of the week.

Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and drugs. Caffeine is a stimulant, which can keep you up at night and exacerbate manic episodes. Cut back on coffee and soda, especially at night. Alcohol and drugs can affect how your medications work and possibly trigger a mood episode.

Write it down. Keep a journal that makes note of big events, stresses, how much sleep you're getting, and what you're eating and drinking. Over time, you may see patterns emerging. By knowing what your triggers are, you may be able to prepare for times when you might be most vulnerable to mood swings.

While these lifestyle changes and coping strategies can help manage mood swings, they won't make bipolar disorder magically disappear. However, knowing what your triggers are and taking steps to manage them can help prevent a minor mood swing from becoming a serious problem.

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Coping With Bipolar Mood Swings - Bipolar Disorder Center - EverydayHealth.com

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
"A number of triggers can set off or worsen bipolar episodes," says Michael First, MD, a professor of clinical psychiatry at Columbia University and attending psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.

# data[].attributes.body
UTRGV Counseling and Training Clinic

2168 E. Jackson

Brownsville, TX 78520

956-882-7792

ctclinicbrownsville@utrgv.edu

All services provided at UTRGV Counseling and Training Clinic are free.  The clinic offers counseling to individuals six years of age and older in the areas of depression, anxiety, adolescent behavioral concerns, and in many more areas.  Services can be provided individually, as a group, or as a family.

Region 1 Education Service Center
Region One ESC

1900 W. Schunior
Edinburg, TX 78541

956- 984-6000
https://www.esc1.net/esc1

Jay Aguayo: Region 1 Health & Safety Specialist
(956) 984-6283
jaguayo@esc1.net
https://www.esc1.net/Domain/89

Region 1 provides support to schools in the region. For student mental health concerns or support, contact Jay Aguayo.

South Texas Counseling and Psychological Testing
3505 Boca Chica Blvd. Suite 149
Brownsville, TX, 78521

956-455-5983

Ages: 3½ - 19 and adults
Cost per session: $100
Accepts cash, most insurances, CHIP, and Medicaid

https://www.rehab.com/south-texas-counseling-and-psychological-testing/6234513-r

South Texas Counseling and Psychological Testing focuses on helping individuals recover from mental illnesses like bipolar disorder, clinical depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and more. Mental health professionals at these facilities are trained to understand and treat mental health issues, both in individual and group settings.

Tropical Texas Behavioral Health
861 Old Alice Rd.
Brownsville, TX 78520
956-546-2230 or 956-547-5400
Monday - Friday 8am to 5pm
New Appointments: 1-800-813-1233

Services: Case Management, Child & Adolescent Crisis Resolution, Referrals, Counseling, Family Education and Training , Medical and Pharmacy Related, Telemedicine/Telehealth, Respite, Mental Health First Aid (including counseling for Bipolar Disorder and Depression).

DHR Health Behavioral Hospital

5510 Raphael Dr.

Edinburg, TX 78539

956-362-4357

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

Clinical assessments are provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week and are free-of-charge.

The DHR Health Behavioral Hospital provides therapy and treatment for children and adolescents who may be experiencing disorders of thinking, feeling, and/or behavior.  Their treatment plans include comprehensive psychiatric and medical assessments, group therapy, medication management, and family involvement.  Therapeutic interventions include evidence-based theoretical approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

New Leaf Counseling

Sylvia Chelf

896 Ridgewood Street Suite D

Brownsville, TX 78520

956-446-0264

Ages: 6-19 and adults

Cost per session: $50-$100

Accepts cash, credit cards, CHIP, medicaid, and insurance

Sylvia Chelf offers counseling in the area of mental health.  Chelf uses an eclectic approach to psychotherapy, valuing concepts drawn from cognitive behavioral theory, existentialism, and humanistic theories so clients are able to work toward improving overall health.

Ebony Center

Anna D Gomez

2905 Central Blvd. Suite C

Brownsville, Texas 78520

956-284-6604

All ages

Cost per session: $120

Accepts cash, credit cards, CHIP, Medicaid, and insurance

Speaks Spanish

Anna D Gomez provides counseling services in mental health such as impulse control disorder and mood disorder.  Additionally, she provides counseling in many other areas.  Ms. Gomez counsels individuals, families, and groups by utilizing the following approaches: coaching, cognitive behavioral (CBT), eclectic, family systems, humanistic, interpersonal, play therapy, psychodynamic, and solution focused brief (SFB).

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Preventing ODD
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9905-oppositional-defiant-disorder/prevention

ODD Symptoms

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Overview

Even the best-behaved children can be difficult and challenging at times. But oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) includes a frequent and ongoing pattern of anger, irritability, arguing and defiance toward parents and other authority figures. ODD also includes being spiteful and seeking revenge, a behavior called vindictiveness.

These emotional and behavioral issues cause serious problems with family life, social activities, school and work. But as a parent, you don't have to try to manage a child with ODD alone. Your health care provider, a mental health professional and a child development expert can help.

Treatment of ODD involves learning skills to help build positive family interactions and to manage problem behaviors. Other therapy, and possibly medicines, may be needed to treat related mental health conditions.

Symptoms

Sometimes it's difficult to recognize the difference between a strong-willed or emotional child and one with oppositional defiant disorder. It's common for children to show oppositional behavior at certain stages of development.

Symptoms of ODD generally begin during preschool years. Sometimes ODD may develop later, but almost always before the early teen years. Oppositional and defiant behaviors are frequent and ongoing. They cause severe problems with relationships, social activities, school and work, for both the child and the family.

Emotional and behavioral symptoms of ODD generally last at least six months. They include angry and irritable mood, argumentative and defiant behavior, and hurtful and revengeful behavior.
Angry and irritable mood

Often and easily loses temper.

Is frequently touchy and easily annoyed by others.

Is often angry and resentful.

Argumentative and defiant behavior

Often argues with adults or people in authority.

Often actively defies or refuses to follow adults' requests or rules.

Often annoys or upsets people on purpose.

Often blames others for their own mistakes or misbehavior.

Hurtful and revengeful behavior

Says mean and hateful things when upset.

Tries to hurt the feelings of others and seeks revenge, also called being vindictive.

Has shown vindictive behavior at least twice in the past six months.

Severity
ODD can be mild, moderate or severe:

Mild. Symptoms occur only in one setting, such as only at home, school, work or with peers.

Moderate. Some symptoms occur in at least two settings.

Severe. Some symptoms occur in three or more settings.

For some children, symptoms may first be seen only at home. But with time, problem behavior also may happen in other settings, such as school, social activities and with friends.

When to see a doctor

Your child isn't likely to see their own behavior as a problem. Instead, your child will probably complain about unreasonable demands or blame others for problems.

If you think your child may have ODD or other problem behavior, or you're concerned about your ability to parent a challenging child, seek help from a child psychologist or a child psychiatrist with expertise in behavior problems. Ask your child's pediatrician or other health care provider for a referral to a mental health provider.

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Causes

There's no known clear cause of oppositional defiant disorder. Causes may include a combination of genetic and environmental factors:

Genetics. A child's natural personality or character - also called temperament - may contribute to developing ODD. Differences in the way nerves and the brain function also may play a role.

Environment. Problems with parenting that may involve a lack of supervision, inconsistent or harsh discipline, or abuse or neglect may contribute to developing ODD.

Risk factors

Oppositional defiant disorder is a complex problem. Possible risk factors for ODD include:

Temperament - a child who has a temperament that includes difficulty managing emotions, such as reacting with strong emotions to situations or having trouble tolerating frustration.

Parenting issues - a child who experiences abuse or neglect, harsh or inconsistent discipline, or a lack of proper supervision.

Other family issues - a child who lives with parent or family relationships that are unstable or has a parent with a mental health condition or substance use disorder.

Environment - problem behaviors that are reinforced through attention from peers and inconsistent discipline from other authority figures, such as teachers.

Complications

Children and teenagers with oppositional defiant disorder may have trouble at home with parents and siblings, in school with teachers, and at work with supervisors and other authority figures. Children and teens with ODD may struggle to make and keep friends and relationships.

ODD also may lead to other problems, such as:

Poor school and work performance.

Antisocial behavior.

Legal problems.

Impulse control problems.

Substance use disorder.

Suicide.

Many children and teens with ODD also have other mental health conditions, such as:

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Conduct disorder.

Depression.

Anxiety disorders.

Learning and communication disorders.

Treating these other mental health conditions may help reduce ODD symptoms. It may be difficult to treat ODD if these other conditions are not evaluated and treated appropriately.

Prevention

There's no sure way to prevent oppositional defiant disorder. But positive parenting and early treatment can help improve behavior and prevent the situation from getting worse. The earlier that ODD can be managed, the better.

Treatment can help restore your child's self-esteem and rebuild a positive relationship between you and your child. Your child's relationships with other important adults in their life - such as teachers and care providers - also will benefit from early treatment.

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Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) - Symptoms and causes

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This childhood mental health condition includes frequent and persistent anger, irritability, arguing, defiance or vindictiveness toward authority.

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Tips for Parents
https://www.bradleyhospital.org/oppositional-defiant-disorder-guide-parents#:~:text=Treatment%20of%20ODD%20may%20include,solving%20skills%20training%20and%20therapies

Tips for Teachers

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What Teachers Should Know

Even the best-behaved students occasionally can be difficult. But kids and teens who display a continual pattern of tantrums, arguing, and angry or disruptive behavior toward teachers, parents, or other authority figures may have oppositional defiant disorder (ODD).

Students with ODD can be so uncooperative and combative that their behavior affects their ability to learn and get along with classmates and teachers. It can lead to poor school performance, anti-social behaviors, and poor impulse control.

ODD is more common in boys than girls. Signs of ODD generally develop during preschool years, and are almost always present before early teens.

Symptoms of ODD can be hard to distinguish from other mental health disorders. Children and teens with ODD may also have:

Behaviors associated with ODD can be mild, moderate, or severe and include:

negativity

being argumentative and defiant

disobedience

hostility toward authority figures

temper outbursts

angry and irritable mood

Students with ODD might need:

seating closer to the teacher to avoid disrupting other students

breaks from classroom activities when they feel overwhelmed

more time to complete assignments

to consult with a school counselor or psychologist

to visit the school nurse to take medication for coexisting conditions, such as ADHD

an individualized education program (IEP) if a learning disability is associated with their ODD

ODD treatment involves therapy, training to help build positive interactions, and sometimes medications to treat related mental health conditions.

What Teachers Can Do

It can be difficult to recognize the differences between a strong-willed or emotional student and one with ODD.

Post classroom rules and review them regularly. Have a plan in place to handle serious behavior problems. Students with ODD often are isolated and lack friends. They may be the targets of bullies or be seen as bullies.

Be sensitive to self-esteem issues. Provide feedback to your student with ODD in private, and avoid asking the student to perform difficult tasks in front of classmates. It can be helpful to praise positive behaviors, such as staying seated, not calling out, taking turns, and being respectful.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Oppositional Defiant Disorder Factsheet (for Schools)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Even the best-behaved students occasionally can be difficult. But kids and teens who display a continual pattern of tantrums, arguing, and angry or disruptive behavior toward teachers, parents, or other authority figures may have oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). Students with ODD can be so uncooperative and combative that their behavior affects their ability to learn and get along with classmates and teachers.

# data[].attributes.body
Signs/Symptoms and Prevention of Conduct Disorder
https://www.psycom.net/conduct-disorder/

Guidance
Tips for Parents
https://evolvetreatment.com/for-parents/parent-guides/conduct-disorder/

Tips for Teachers

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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

# data[].attributes.subject
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

# data[].attributes.body
Prevention
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/suffer-the-children/201502/30-ways-prevent-adhd

ADHD Signs & Symptoms
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/facts.html#SignsSymptoms

Guidance
Tips for Parents
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321621#what-to-tell-children

Tips for Teachers

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
WebMD provides tips for teachers on making their classrooms friendlier to children with ADHD.

# data[].attributes.body
UTRGV Counseling and Training Clinic

2168 E. Jackson

Brownsville, TX 78520

956-882-7792

ctclinicbrownsville@utrgv.edu

All services provided at UTRGV Counseling and Training Clinic are free.  The clinic offers counseling to individuals six years of age and older in the areas of depression, anxiety, adolescent behavioral concerns, and in many more areas.  Services can be provided individually, as a group, or as a family.

Tropical Texas Behavioral Health
861 Old Alice Rd.
Brownsville, TX 78520
956-546-2230 or 956-547-5400
Monday - Friday 8am to 5pm
New Appointments: 1-800-813-1233

Services: Case Management, Child & Adolescent Crisis Resolution, Referrals, Counseling, Family Education and Training , Medical and Pharmacy Related, Telemedicine/Telehealth, Respite, Mental Health First Aid

DHR Health Behavioral Hospital

5510 Raphael Dr.

Edinburg, TX 78539

956-362-4357

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

Clinical assessments are provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week and are free-of-charge.

The DHR Health Behavioral Hospital provides therapy and treatment for children and adolescents who may be experiencing disorders of thinking, feeling, and/or behavior.  Their treatment plans include comprehensive psychiatric and medical assessments, group therapy, medication management, and family involvement.  Therapeutic interventions include evidence-based theoretical approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

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Preventing OCD
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9490-obsessive-compulsive-disorder/prevention

OCD Symptoms

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" OCD" is one of those terms that some people misuse as a way to describe people who like things super-clean or arranged just so. But if you have the actual condition that's obsessive-compulsive disorder, how it negatively affects your life is very real.

OCD usually doesn't happen all at once. Symptoms start small, and to you, they can seem to be normal behaviors. They can be triggered by a personal crisis, abuse, or something negative that affects you a lot, like the death of a loved one. It's more likely if people in your family have OCD or another mental health disorder, such as depression or anxiety.

OCD symptoms include obsessions, compulsions, or both.

An obsession is an uncontrollable thought or fear that causes stress. A compulsion is a ritual or action that someone repeats a lot. Compulsions may offer some relief, but only for a little while.

Common Obsessions

Obsessions often have a theme, such as these:

Theme: Fear of germs or dirt

Symptom: You might be scared to touch things other people have touched, like doorknobs. Or you don't want to hug or shake hands with others.

Theme: Extreme need for order

Symptom: You feel stressed when objects are out of place. It's really hard for you to leave home until you've arranged things in a certain way.

Theme: Fear of hurting yourself or someone else

Symptom: When you're thinking of something completely different, you have thoughts about hurting yourself or someone else.

Theme: Excessive doubt or fear of making a mistake

Symptom: You need constant encouragement or reassurance from others that what you're doing is right or OK.

Theme: Fear of embarrassment

Symptom: You're afraid you might yell out curse words in public or behave badly in social situations.

Theme: Fear of evil or hostile thoughts, including warped ideas about sex or religion

Symptom: You imagine troubling sexual or disrespectful scenarios.

Common Compulsions

Like obsessions, compulsions also have common themes and symptoms:

Theme: Washing or cleaning

Symptom: You wash your hands, shower, or take a bath over and over.

Continued

Theme: Checking

Symptom: You check repeatedly to make sure kitchen appliances are turned off or the door is locked when you leave.

Theme: Counting

Symptom: You say numbers in a certain pattern out loud or to yourself.

Theme: Order

Symptom: You feel the need to eat certain foods in a specific order. You arrange all your clothes or kitchen pantry items in a specific way.

Theme: Routine

Symptom: You say or do things a set number of times in a certain way before being able to leave the house.

Theme: Collecting or hoarding

Symptom: Your home is full of things you don't use or need, and you can't stop yourself from buying more.

These repetitive routines usually don't have anything to do with the obsession you're trying to fix and can take hours to do.

Diagnosis

If you think you might have OCD, see a doctor or a psychiatrist.

The diagnosis process will likely include:

A physical exam to see if your symptoms are due to a health condition.

Blood tests to check your blood count, how well your thyroid works, and any drugs or alcohol in your system.

A psychological test or evaluation about your feelings, fears, obsessions, compulsions, and actions.

One some level, many people have superstitions or rituals, or fear that they left the door unlocked or the oven on before leaving for work or vacation. If you can control those thoughts or think about them logically, it's probably not OCD. If you can't control them, or they take up at least an hour of your day and cause problems in your life, it's a sign that it's time to get help.

Sources

SOURCES:

Mayo Clinic: "Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)."

Beyond OCD: "Obsessions and Compulsions."

Cleveland Clinic: "Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder."

National Institute of Mental Health: "Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder."

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" OCD" is one of those terms that some people misuse as a way to describe people who like things super-clean or arranged just so. But if you have the actual condition that's obsessive-compulsive disorder, how it negatively affects your life is very real. OCD usually doesn't happen all at once.

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Tips for Parents

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Trusted information on everyday and complex child health conditions from The Hospital for Sick Children.

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Tips for Teachers

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UTRGV Counseling and Training Clinic

2168 E. Jackson

Brownsville, TX 78520

956-882-7792

ctclinicbrownsville@utrgv.edu

All services provided at UTRGV Counseling and Training Clinic are free.  The clinic offers counseling to individuals six years of age and older in the areas of depression, anxiety, adolescent behavioral concerns, and in many more areas.  Services can be provided individually, as a group, or as a family.

Tropical Texas Behavioral Health
861 Old Alice Rd.
Brownsville, TX 78520
956-546-2230 or 956-547-5400
Monday - Friday 8am to 5pm
New Appointments: 1-800-813-1233

Services: Case Management, Child & Adolescent Crisis Resolution, Referrals, Counseling, Family Education and Training , Medical and Pharmacy Related, Telemedicine/Telehealth, Respite, Mental Health First Aid

DHR Health Behavioral Hospital

5510 Raphael Dr.

Edinburg, TX 78539

956-362-4357

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

Clinical assessments are provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week and are free-of-charge.

The DHR Health Behavioral Hospital provides therapy and treatment for children and adolescents who may be experiencing disorders of thinking, feeling, and/or behavior.  Their treatment plans include comprehensive psychiatric and medical assessments, group therapy, medication management, and family involvement.  Therapeutic interventions include evidence-based theoretical approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

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SOURCES:

UpToDate: "Overview of Psychosis."

MedLinePlus: "Psychotic Disorders."

National Alliance of Mental Illness: "About the First Episodes of Psychosis."

Janssen Pharmaceuticals Inc.

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SOURCES: UpToDate: "Overview of Psychosis." MedLinePlus: "Psychotic Disorders." National Alliance of Mental Illness: "About the First Episodes of Psychosis." Janssen Pharmaceuticals Inc.

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Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/36942#types

Guidance

Tips for Parents
https://www.webmd.com/schizophrenia/features/families-cope-schizophrenia#1

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Symptoms
https://pakconline.com/paraphrenia-what-you-need-to-know/

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Tropical Texas Behavioral Health
861 Old Alice Rd.
Brownsville, TX 78520
956-546-2230 or 956-547-5400
Monday - Friday 8am to 5pm
New Appointments: 1-800-813-1233

Services: Case Management, Child & Adolescent Crisis Resolution, Referrals, Counseling, Family Education and Training , Medical and Pharmacy Related, Telemedicine/Telehealth, Respite, Mental Health First Aid

DHR Health Behavioral Hospital

5510 Raphael Dr.

Edinburg, TX 78539

956-362-4357

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

Clinical assessments are provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week and are free-of-charge.

The DHR Health Behavioral Hospital provides therapy and treatment for children and adolescents who may be experiencing disorders of thinking, feeling, and/or behavior.  Their treatment plans include comprehensive psychiatric and medical assessments, group therapy, medication management, and family involvement.  Therapeutic interventions include evidence-based theoretical approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

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Missouri School Counselors and Counselor Educators. (2015). School counselor referral process guide. Retrieved from https://dese.mo.gov/sites/default/files/guid-respon-serv-referral-process-guide.pdf

National Eating Disorders Association. (2019). Educator toolkit. Retrieved from          https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/toolkits