Emotional and behavioural disorders

Child psychiatry and psychology used to address emotional and behavioural disorders have become highly complex over the last fifty years, in particular the past two decades, since findings from molecular biology have been incorporated along with an understanding of how the brain works and of psychiatric diseases in children and young people.

It is estimated that one fifth of adolescents under the age of 18 suffer from an emotional or behaviour problem, and one in eight currently has a mental disorder. Until recently, the importance of children suffering from mental disorders was downplayed, but nowadays there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate the existence of a relationship and continuity between childhood mental disorders and those of adult life. It is critical and highly relevant that we take action in the mental health of children and young people to ensure that these patients can develop normally.

The lack of diagnosis and treatment of health mental problems in children and adolescents has a serious impact on their future, with severe negative consequences such as a reduction in educational and professional opportunities, as well as representing a great deal of suffering for the family.