An inability to stay on task.
An unexpected emotional swing.
An anxious feeling that lingers.
Everyone struggles with these at one point or another. However, there’s a big difference between the occasional, mild experience and facing the weight of these types of obstacles regularly.
For people with behavioral disorders, they can be daily hurdles. Although these types of disorders are most often associated with kids, the effects may continue into adulthood if left untreated.
Types Of Behavioral Disorders
It can be difficult to define behavioral disorders because a countless number of diagnoses, conditions, and obstacles may impact a person’s behavior. But in general, categories of behavioral disorders include:
- Anxiety disorders
- Disruptive behavior disorders
- Dissociative disorders
- Emotional disorders
- Pervasive developmental disorders
A variety of specific diagnoses (ADHD, PTSD, autism, etc.) can fall within these different categories. For an official diagnosis, the associated behavior patterns must typically be seen
for at least six months.
Impacts On Daily Life
No two people will have the exact same experience, but in general, individuals with a behavioral disorder may find it difficult to:
- Interact with others
- Keep emotions at an appropriate level
- Focus on one task at a time
- Remain seated for long stretches
- Follow instructions
For kids at school, behavioral disorders can make learning especially difficult. That’s why solutions such as an Individualized Education Program (IEP) may be needed to help your child reach his or her full potential.
Solutions You Can Consider
Whether you want to help a loved one or yourself, there are a variety of different options that may offer the help you need:
Establish Daily Routines
Establishing routines creates a much-needed sense of structure. When an action is repeated, it requires less forethought and planning. Building new habits might feel like an uphill battle, so don’t be afraid to start slowly. It’s also helpful to pay attention to cues. This could mean doing something at the same time every day or immediately following one action (eating dinner) with another (clearing the table). Routines help automate parts of the day.
Set Realistic Goals
Goals give you or your child a target to hit. They can be small, like learning one more letter of the alphabet, or big like mastering an entirely new skill. In addition to generating positive momentum, goals create a great amount of satisfaction when you mark them complete. Along with being specific, add a deadline. This isn’t to create unnecessary anxiety. Timelines encourage you to get started and keep going. One of the best ways to start with your goal is to write it down.
According to one study, the simple act of putting pen to paper could make you 42% more likely to achieve it.
Find Professional Help
Although you may be tempted to try and fix everything on your own, sometimes the best way forward is to find a professional. Counselors are trained to assist you. And there’s no shame in asking for help. Here in Fort Wayne, Headwater Counseling offers
therapy services for both individuals and families. Our licensed counselors will develop a unique treatment plan. To get started, you can learn more about
what to expect or
contact us today. We are here to talk and listen.
