Chapter 33: Emotional & Behavioural Conditions in Children

Emotional & Behavioural Conditions in Children establishes a framework based on a continuum of care that spans from health promotion and prevention to specialized inpatient services, emphasizing the nurse's role in family advocacy, system navigation, and establishing therapeutic relationships that respect parental values while prioritizing child safety. The text provides a detailed analysis of mood disorders, particularly major depression, noting that symptoms in youth often manifest as irritability, somatic complaints, and behavioral acting out rather than typical adult presentations. A significant portion of the chapter is dedicated to suicide prevention, outlining critical risk factors such as previous attempts, specific plans, and the disproportionate rates of suicide among Indigenous youth linked to historical trauma and social deprivation. Anxiety disorders are explored as the most common mental health concern, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), separation anxiety, and social phobias, with treatment protocols necessitating a combination of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and pharmacological interventions to manage excessive worry that impedes daily functioning. The summary further delves into neurodevelopmental disorders, specifically detailing Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It describes the hallmarks of ADHD, such as impulsivity and inattention, and advocates for a multidisciplinary treatment approach involving stimulant medications and environmental structuring in educational settings. For ASD, the text highlights deficits in social communication and repetitive behaviors, the importance of early screening with tools like the M-CHAT, and care strategies centered on clarity, consistency, simplicity, and continuation. Finally, the chapter addresses the growing concern of substance use disorders, examining the physiological and psychological mechanics of dependence, the impact of alcohol, cannabis, and opioids, and the implementation of harm reduction strategies to mitigate the dangers of street and club drugs.