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If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you care deeply about the young people in your life. You may be wondering about certain feelings, behaviors, or challenges you’ve noticed in your child—or maybe you’re just looking for reassurance and understanding. Whatever brought you here, please know this space is built for kindness, clarity, and comfort.

Children are always growing and changing.
It’s perfectly natural for all children to experience big feelings, unique habits, or even difficult days as they learn about themselves and the world around them. Many of the terms in this glossary describe experiences that are part of normal childhood development and do not mean there’s something “wrong” or that your child will need formal treatment. In fact, most children move through many of these phases with time, warmth, and gentle guidance.

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If You’re Feeling Worried

It’s understandable to feel concerned when your child struggles, but needing help, or just wanting to talk things through, is a sign of love and good parenting—not failure.

• Some behaviors—like being a little extra shy, picky eating, or big emotions over small upsets—are simply part of growing up.
  They usually pass as your child gains confidence and more experience in the world.

• Others, like ongoing worry, sadness, or challenges at home or school, may last longer.
  Even then, support is plentiful, and you are not alone.

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Where You Can Turn

• Your family doctor (GP) is always a safe and friendly first step for reassurance, guidance, and answering questions—big or small.

• School professionals—like school counselors, special needs coordinators, or teachers—are wonderful partners in supporting your child’s learning and happiness.

• Specialist help is available if it’s ever needed, and might include child psychologists, speech therapists, or others, depending on what is most supportive.

 

Most Importantly

• There’s no rush, no pressure, and no expectation to have all the answers.

• Each child’s journey is unique. Most challenges soften with time, understanding, and gentle care.

• Asking questions or seeking advice simply shows how much you care for your child’s wellbeing.

 

Why This Glossary Exists

Mental health language can sound complicated or even worrying. This guide is here to explain things in plain, friendly words—never to give you reason for anxiety, but to empower you with knowledge and reassurance. You know your child best, and this resource is here to support you every step of the way, so you never feel alone on this path.

You are doing your best, and that is enough.
Whenever you have a concern, a question, or just need comfort, you’ll find simple explanations and gentle guidance here. Your child’s journey is one of discovery and growth—and there’s always support, understanding, and hope along the way.

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Childhood & Adolescent Mental Health Conditions: A–Z Glossary

 

Acute Stress Disorder
A short-term, intense reaction to a traumatic experience.
Main Symptoms: Numbness, anxiety, sleep problems, flashbacks, avoidance.
Benefits of Support: Prevents progression to PTSD, teaches coping after trauma.
Age Group: Any age after a traumatic event.
Who to Contact: GP, psychologist, trauma therapist.
Settles with Time? Often resolves, but can develop into PTSD if persistent.

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ADHD – Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
A neurodevelopmental condition that makes it hard to focus, control impulses, and manage activity levels.
Main Symptoms: Inattention, fidgeting, impulsivity, distraction, trouble following instructions.
Benefits of Support: Improves attention, self-control, and behavior; supports learning and friendships.
Age Group: Most common in ages 4–12.
Who to Contact: GP, psychiatrist, psychologist, school counselor.
Settles with Time? Many children see improvement, but some continue to experience symptoms as teens/adults.

 

AN – Anorexia Nervosa
An eating disorder marked by refusing food and intense fear of weight gain.
Main Symptoms: Significant weight loss, food refusal, exercising excessively, preoccupation with weight/shape.
Benefits of Support: Restoration of healthy eating, body acceptance, and medical wellbeing.
Age Group: Common in teens, rare in younger children.
Who to Contact: GP, pediatrician, psychiatrist, psychologist, dietitian.
Settles with Time? Early intervention improves outlook; some recover, some may struggle longer term.

 

ARFID – Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
Eating very limited kinds or amounts of food, not due to body image concerns.
Main Symptoms: Picky eating, limited food range, weight loss or stunted growth, distress around new foods.
Benefits of Support: Ensures healthy nutrition, expands range of accepted foods, and supports positive mealtimes.
Age Group: Often starts in early childhood or pre-teens.
Who to Contact: GP, psychologist, dietitian, feeding specialist.
Settles with Time? Can improve with tailored support and therapy, especially if started early.

 

ASD – Autism Spectrum Disorder
A developmental difference affecting how a child communicates, socializes, and experiences the world.
Main Symptoms: Social or communication challenges, repetitive behaviors, strong interests, sensory sensitivities.
Benefits of Support: Enhances communication and social skills, increases independence, and helps manage routines.
Age Group: Detected under age 3 or early childhood, but may be diagnosed at any age.
Who to Contact: Pediatrician, psychologist, speech and language therapist.
Settles with Time? Lifelong, but skills and functioning can improve greatly with early support and understanding.

 

BCS – Battered Child Syndrome
A term for non-accidental injuries in children caused by abuse or neglect.
Main Symptoms: Unexplained bruises/injuries, fearfulness, withdrawal, behavioral changes.
Benefits of Support: Protects children from harm and provides safety, healing, and trauma support.
Age Group: Any, but most common under 6 years.
Who to Contact: GP, social services, safeguarding team, pediatrician.
Settles with Time? Effects may persist lifelong if unaddressed; early intervention can save lives.

 

BCS – Broken Cookie Syndrome
An informal term describing emotional meltdowns over minor disappointments; common in very young children.
Main Symptoms: Tantrums, intense distress when a toy/snack breaks or routines change.
Benefits of Support: Teaches emotional regulation and resilience through gentle parenting and reassurance.
Age Group: Most common in toddlers and preschoolers (1–6 yrs).
Who to Contact: Parents; pediatrician or psychologist if distress is extreme or persistent.
Settles with Time? Yes, almost all children outgrow these reactions as their emotional skills develop.

 

BDD – Body Dysmorphic Disorder
A preoccupation with perceived flaws in appearance that others may not notice.
Main Symptoms: Excessive mirror-checking, avoiding social situations, distress about “imperfections.”
Benefits of Support: Increases self-acceptance, reduces distress, and teaches healthy coping.
Age Group: Most often emerges in teens.
Who to Contact: GP, psychologist, psychiatrist.
Settles with Time? Marked improvement possible with therapy; can persist without support.

 

BN – Bulimia Nervosa
An eating disorder with cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors (vomiting, over-exercising, fasting).
Main Symptoms: Bingeing, purging, weight fluctuation, shame about eating habits.
Benefits of Support: Restores healthy eating, protects physical health, and improves self-esteem.
Age Group: Teens, older children.
Who to Contact: GP, psychologist, psychiatrist, dietitian.
Settles with Time? Many recover with therapy, though relapses may occur without ongoing support.

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CD – Conduct Disorder
A consistent pattern of violating rules, social norms, or the rights of others.
Main Symptoms: Aggression, destruction of property, lying, stealing, running away.
Benefits of Support: Reduces aggression, increases empathy, and teaches respectful behavior and problem-solving.
Age Group: 10–16 years (may start younger).
Who to Contact: Psychiatrist, psychologist, social services, school counselor.
Settles with Time? Some improve with support, but early intervention is needed to prevent adult problems.

 

C-PTSD – Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
An ongoing emotional response to repeated or severe trauma (often chronic neglect or abuse).
Main Symptoms: Emotional numbness, trust difficulties, flashbacks, relationship troubles.
Benefits of Support: Trauma healing, emotion regulation, building trust and safety.
Age Group: Any; often seen in children/adolescents with repeated adversity.
Who to Contact: Trauma specialist, psychologist, psychiatrist.
Settles with Time? Can improve with long-term support and therapy.

 

DCD – Developmental Coordination Disorder (Dyspraxia)
Difficulties with movement and coordination not explained by other conditions.
Main Symptoms: Clumsiness, poor handwriting, slow with motor tasks, trouble with sports.
Benefits of Support: Occupational therapy builds daily living and motor skills; boosts confidence.
Age Group: Detected in early school age.
Who to Contact: Pediatrician, occupational therapist, school SENCO.
Settles with Time? Symptoms may improve, but many need ongoing support.

 

Delusional Disorder
Persistent false beliefs that aren't shared by others.
Main Symptoms: Having beliefs that are clearly untrue and fixed, little else out of the ordinary.
Benefits of Support: Safety, improved reasoning, and emotional support.
Age Group: Rare in children—more often in teens/adults.
Who to Contact: Psychiatrist.
Settles with Time? Long-term care typically needed.

 

Dissociative Disorders
Loss of connection with reality, identity, memory, or perception—often linked to trauma.
Main Symptoms: Memory gaps, feeling unreal, identity confusion, "spacing out."
Benefits of Support: Improves grounding, heals trauma, supports daily functioning.
Age Group: Teens and school-age children.
Who to Contact: Psychiatrist, psychologist.
Settles with Time? Many improve with specific trauma-focused therapy.

 

DMDD – Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder
Long-standing irritability and frequent, intense temper outbursts.
Main Symptoms: Angry moods, frequent temper tantrums, trouble managing frustration.
Benefits of Support: Improves emotional control, reduces outbursts, supports positive relationships.
Age Group: Typically ages 6–18.
Who to Contact: Psychiatrist, psychologist, behavioral therapist.
Settles with Time? Many children improve as they mature or with therapy.

 

Encopresis/Enuresis
Soiling (encopresis) or bedwetting (enuresis) after expected toilet training age.
Main Symptoms: Involuntary emptying of bowels or bladder, embarrassment, withdrawal.
Benefits of Support: Resolves accidents, boosts confidence, rules out medical causes.
Age Group: 5–12 years.
Who to Contact: GP, pediatrician, psychologist.
Settles with Time? Usually improves or resolves as children mature.

 

Factitious Disorder
Deliberately producing, faking, or exaggerating medical symptoms for psychological reasons.
Main Symptoms: Frequent doctor visits, inconsistent symptoms, eagerness for tests/procedures.
Benefits of Support: Addresses emotional causes, reduces unnecessary treatments.
Age Group: Rare in children; more common in teens/adults.
Who to Contact: Psychiatrist, GP.
Settles with Time? Chronic; therapy can help.

 

GAD – Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Persistent and excessive worry about many different things.
Main Symptoms: Constant worry, muscle tension, trouble sleeping, irritability.
Benefits of Support: Reduces anxiety, builds coping strategies, and improves wellbeing.
Age Group: Most common from ages 7–18.
Who to Contact: Psychologist, GP, psychiatrist, school counselor.
Settles with Time? With support/therapy, symptoms often improve; some persist without help.

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Gender Dysphoria
Distress caused by a mismatch between gender identity and assigned sex at birth.
Main Symptoms: Sadness, anxiety, desire to live as another gender, distress over body changes.
Benefits of Support: Builds identity confidence, provides support for transitions if desired.
Age Group: Can begin in childhood or teens.
Who to Contact: GP, gender specialist clinic, psychologist.
Settles with Time? Some resolve, others persist; support and affirmation improve wellbeing.

 

Hypochondriasis (Illness Anxiety Disorder)
Persistent worry about having a serious illness, even when healthy.
Main Symptoms: Repeated doctor visits, health anxiety, reassurance seeking.
Benefits of Support: Reduces anxiety, reassures, builds health confidence.
Age Group: School-age, teens.
Who to Contact: GP, psychologist, psychiatrist.
Settles with Time? Often improves with therapy.

 

ID – Intellectual Disability
Significant difficulties with reasoning, learning, and everyday activities.
Main Symptoms: Global delays in development, challenges with self-care, learning, and social skills.
Benefits of Support: Maximizes independence and strengths, supports daily tasks, improves self-esteem.
Age Group: Detected in early childhood.
Who to Contact: Pediatrician, psychologist, SENCO (school support).
Settles with Time? Lifelong; early intervention supports better outcomes.

 

IED – Intermittent Explosive Disorder
Sudden, repeated outbursts of anger or aggression, often disproportionate to the trigger.
Main Symptoms: Rage attacks, shouting, hitting, inability to control temper.
Benefits of Support: Teaches anger management, reduces destructive behaviors.
Age Group: School-age children and teens.
Who to Contact: Psychiatrist, psychologist, behavioral therapist.
Settles with Time? Can improve significantly with therapy.

 

Insomnia/Parasomnias
Difficulty falling or staying asleep, or unusual sleep behaviors (night terrors, sleepwalking).
Main Symptoms: Fatigue, bedtime struggles, night walking/talking, nightmares.
Benefits of Support: Improves sleep patterns, reduces distress, builds healthy routines.
Age Group: All ages; especially common in early childhood.
Who to Contact: GP, psychologist, sleep specialist.
Settles with Time? Most children outgrow these issues.

 

MDD – Major Depressive Disorder
A mood disorder involving deep, long-lasting sadness and loss of interest in usual activities.
Main Symptoms: Persistent sadness, withdrawal, sleep/appetite changes, hopelessness.
Benefits of Support: Lifts mood, restores daily functioning, and builds emotional tools.
Age Group: Most common in teens (10–19); can affect younger children.
Who to Contact: GP, psychologist, psychiatrist.
Settles with Time? Many cases resolve; some may have recurring or chronic episodes.

 

Misophonia
Intense distress, anger, or anxiety in response to specific everyday sounds (e.g., chewing, breathing).
Main Symptoms: Emotional outbursts, avoidance of triggering sounds, irritability.
Benefits of Support: Increases tolerance to sounds, teaches coping techniques, reduces anxiety.
Age Group: Typical onset 8–14 years (possible in adults).
Who to Contact: Psychologist, audiologist, GP.
Settles with Time? Can persist, but therapy/coping strategies help.

 

OCD – Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
A pattern of unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions).
Main Symptoms: Washing, checking, repeating, intrusive fears, and rituals.
Benefits of Support: Breaks the anxiety cycle, builds confidence and coping skills.
Age Group: Typically ages 7–12, but may start earlier or later.
Who to Contact: Psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist.
Settles with Time? Therapy greatly helps; some continue to struggle if not treated.

 

ODD – Oppositional Defiant Disorder
A frequent, lasting pattern of angry, argumentative, or defiant behavior toward authority figures.
Main Symptoms: Frequent arguing, refusing rules, easily annoyed, spiteful or vindictive behaviors.
Benefits of Support: Improves cooperation, communication, and anger management.
Age Group: Typically emerges between ages 6–12.
Who to Contact: GP, psychologist, psychiatrist, school counselor.
Settles with Time? Most children improve; some may develop further behavioral problems if not supported.

 

Panic Disorder
Repeated, sudden panic attacks (short episodes of intense fear or discomfort).
Main Symptoms: Heart racing, shortness of breath, fear of another attack.
Benefits of Support: Teaches calming techniques and reduces attacks and avoidance.
Age Group: School-age children, teens.
Who to Contact: GP, psychologist, psychiatrist.
Settles with Time? Often improves with therapy and support.

 

Personality Disorders
Long-standing patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behavior that cause significant difficulties.
Main Symptoms: Relationship problems, emotional instability, trouble seeing own impact on others.
Benefits of Support: Improves self-understanding, relationship skills, and coping.
Age Group: Rare to diagnose in teens; usually identified in older teens/adults.
Who to Contact: Psychiatrist, psychologist.
Settles with Time? Lifelong, but therapy brings noticeable improvement.

 

Pica
Persistent eating of non-food items (e.g., dirt, chalk, paper).
Main Symptoms: Repeatedly eating non-nutritive substances sometimes leading to nutritional or health problems.
Benefits of Support: Prevents health risks and nutritional deficits, builds safer habits.
Age Group: Common ages 2–6.
Who to Contact: GP, pediatrician, psychologist.
Settles with Time? Often resolves naturally with age, but can persist if not addressed.

 

PTSD – Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Ongoing distress after witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event.
Main Symptoms: Nightmares, flashbacks, mood swings, avoidance, and hyper-vigilance.
Benefits of Support: Reduces anxiety and nightmares, helps process trauma memories, restores sense of safety.
Age Group: Any age after trauma exposure.
Who to Contact: Psychiatrist, trauma specialist, psychologist.
Settles with Time? With early intervention and support, many improve; some symptoms can be long-lasting.

 

Rumination Disorder
Repeated regurgitation, rechewing, or re-swallowing of food, not due to illness.
Main Symptoms: Persistent spitting or chewing of food, weight loss/failure to thrive.
Benefits of Support: Stops unhealthy eating habits, protects nutrition, addresses stress.
Age Group: Most common in infants and young children (can occur in older children).
Who to Contact: Pediatrician, psychologist, feeding specialist.
Settles with Time? Often resolves naturally, especially in infants.

 

SAD – Separation Anxiety Disorder
Intense fear or distress when apart from parents or main caregivers.
Main Symptoms: Clinginess, school refusal, nightmares, fear something bad will happen to parents.
Benefits of Support: Builds confidence and coping skills, helps child tolerate separations.
Age Group: 5–10 years most common.
Who to Contact: GP, psychologist, school counselor.
Settles with Time? Most children outgrow it with support as independence develops.

 

SLDs – Specific Learning Disorders (including Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia)
Difficulty with reading, writing, or math unrelated to general intelligence.
Main Symptoms: Struggles in academic skills, low confidence, frustration in schoolwork.
Benefits of Support: Tailored teaching strategies, improved self-esteem, academic progress.
Age Group: Identified in early school-age years.
Who to Contact: Educational psychologist, SENCO, specialist tutor.
Settles with Time? Lifelong, but many children thrive with correct help.

 

SM – Selective Mutism
A child’s consistent inability to speak in certain situations (like school) while speaking comfortably elsewhere.
Main Symptoms: Little or no talking outside home, especially in school or public settings.
Benefits of Support: Builds confidence, communication, and reduces anxiety in social settings.
Age Group: Typically seen ages 3–8.
Who to Contact: Psychologist, speech therapist, school counselor.
Settles with Time? Most children improve with gradual intervention.

 

Substance Use Disorders
Difficulties controlling use of alcohol, drugs, or inhalants.
Main Symptoms: Cravings, social/academic problems, withdrawal, risky behavior.
Benefits of Support: Prevents harm, builds resilience, and supports recovery.
Age Group: Teens (rare in younger children).
Who to Contact: GP, addiction specialist, psychiatrist, psychologist.
Settles with Time? Many improve with help and support.

 

Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders
Conditions caused by exposure to traumatic or highly stressful events.
Main Symptoms: Nightmares, emotional swings, withdrawal, anxiety.
Benefits of Support: Reduces distress, encourages healing, restores daily life.
Age Group: Any age after trauma/stressor.
Who to Contact: Psychologist, trauma specialist, school counselor.
Settles with Time? Usually improves with therapy and support.

 

TS – Tourette’s Syndrome
A neurological disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements or sounds (tics).
Main Symptoms: Sudden, repetitive tics—blinking, sniffing, throat clearing, vocal outbursts.
Benefits of Support: Reduces stigma, teaches coping for tics, improves social and school experience.
Age Group: Usually appears 5–10 years old.
Who to Contact: Neurologist, psychologist, psychiatrist.
Settles with Time? Many see reduced tics in adolescence; support improves confidence.

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Common Childhood Phobias & Fears  (Not always a formal disorder)

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Animal Phobia, Blood/Needle Phobia, School/Social Phobia
Common, developmentally “normal” fears—often diminish with maturity or support.
Age Group: Peak 4–10 years for animal/school phobia.
Who to Contact: School counselor, psychologist, GP if severe.
Settles with Time? Most lessen as confidence and life experience grow.

 

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Why this glossary exists:
Mental health terms can feel confusing or intimidating, especially when you’re already struggling. This glossary was created to offer comfort, clear information, and supportive guidance—making the language of mental health easier to understand for everyone. 

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How This Glossary Helps

• You can come here anytime for reassurance or a reminder of what support options exist.

• Each therapy is described in friendly language for comfort and clarity.

• No one is expected to understand or try everything—gentle discovery is encouraged.

This glossary aims to gently translate mental health terms into understanding- one kind definition at a time.

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This is not for medical advice, please contact a medical professional for medical advice.

If you have questions regarding more resources or would like more details on any entry on this page, please reach out or explore further support.

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If You’re Unsure Where to Start

• Your GP or family doctor is always a good first step for assessment and advice.

• If you’re studying or working, check if your school, university, or employer provides mental health support.

• For relationship or day-to-day struggles, talking therapies and support groups can be invaluable too.

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