What is Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)? Reactive Attachment Disorder is a mental health disorder in which a child does not have his/her basic needs for affection, nurturing and comfort met. As a result, loving and caring attachments with others are not developed. RAD is frequently seen in children and adolescents who have had inconsistent or abusive care in early childhood as well as in the womb. Most include but are…

What is a Suicidal Ideation? Suicidal Ideation is a medical term meaning thoughts about or an unusual preoccupation with how to kill oneself. According to the Center for Disease Control, suicide is the third leading cause of death among teenagers. Over 1,500 teens kill themselves each year In 1998, there were 1,520 suicides among 13-18 year olds Approximately 1 in 12 high school students say they have made a suicide…

What is Low Self Esteem? Self esteem is a person’s overall evaluation or judgment of his or her own worth. Low self esteem is a person’s inability to accept himself; having an unfavorable opinion of oneself or lack of confidence or worth. A person with low self esteem has a poor self image. Abraham Maslow, psychologist and creator of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, states that psychological health is not possible…

What is Teen Depression? Teen Depression is a mental health disorder that is characterized by abnormally low moods that persist for two or more weeks. Depression prevents individuals from functioning normally in their day-to-day activities. Although a depressive episode may last only a few weeks, teen depression often lasts much longer. There are as many misconceptions about Teen Depression as there are about teenagers in general. Yes, the teen years…

What is Sexual Abuse? Child Sexual Abuse is characterized by an adult or older adolescent using a child for any form of sexual contact or sexual activity. Effects of Sexual Abuse Loss of self esteem Feelings of guilt Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Nightmares, sleep problems Separation anxiety Suicidal behavior Distorted view of sex Withdrawal and difficulty trusting adults Alcohol or drug abuse   Treatment for victims of Sexual Abuse is…