Anxiety and depression in children with epilepsy
- Author:
Lai Choo Ong
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- From:Neurology Asia
2013;18(s1):39-41
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Children with epilepsy are at increased risk of behavioral problems and psychiatric disorders compared
with the general population and those with other chronic illnesses. Depression and anxiety disorders
are the most common and require further attention because they carry the risk of reduced quality of life
and have far reaching consequences in later life. The wide range of prevalence quoted in the literature
refl ects methodologic differences. Risk factors are often multifactorial and include illness severity,
coexisting morbidity, and psychosocial factors. Diagnosis remains a challenge, as the presentation is
heterogenous and age related. This is complicated by epilepsy issues and associated comorbidity that
hamper the use of standardized assessment tools. Multimodal treatment involving psychotherapy and
antidepressant therapy currently represents the best approach. The mental health needs of these children
are largely unmet; increased awareness and better research are required to determine best practices.
- Full text:P020150706601325794927.pdf
