Study: Children with epilepsy at risk to develop psychiatric conditions

By Staff Writer

A new study reveals that children who have epilepsy are more likely to develop psychiatric symptoms, such as anxiety, depression and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

The report, which appears in the journal Epilepsia, was conducted by officials from the Norwegian Health Services Research Centre. They based their findings on a survey of 14,699 parents of children between 8 and 13 years old.

Researchers found that 38 percent of kids who had epilepsy - a disorder of the central nervous system - exhibited psychiatric symptoms, compared to only 17 percent of healthy children. Overall, boys in both groups had a higher risk than girls of experiencing psychiatric conditions. However, epilepsy was a more significant risk factor among girls.

Furthermore, low socioeconomic status was another risk factor for depression, anxiety and ADHD. The study's authors said that these findings can help clinicians implement interventions to prevent more serious mental issues.

Adolescents who suffer from emotional or psychological problems may benefit from wilderness therapy programs, which are designed to provide help for troubled teens.