children s health issues
Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders in Children
Treatment
Psychotherapy A rehabilitation program to restore a normal routine Sometimes medications to relieve symptoms Children may balk at the idea of visiting a psychotherapist because they think their symptoms are purely physical. However, individual and family psychotherapy, often using cognitive-behavioral techniques, can help children and family members recognize patterns of thought and behavior that perpetuate the symptoms. Therapists may use hypnosis, biofeedback, and relaxation therapy. Psychotherapy is usually combined with a rehabilitation program that aims to help children get back into a normal routine. It can include physical therapy, which has the following benefits: It may treat actual physical effects, such as reduced mobility or loss of muscle, caused by a somatic symptom or related disorder. It makes children feel as if something concrete is being done to treat them. It enables children to participate actively in their treatment. Having a primary care doctor who supports them, sees them regularly, and coordinates all their care is also important. Medications, such as a type of antidepressant called Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (SSRIs), may be used to relieve pain or the anxiety or depression that can accompany these disorders. 