Gender dysphoria is the term used to describe the distress or discomfort someone feels when their gender identity their internal sense of being male, female, both, neither, or somewhere in between doesn’t align with the sex they were assigned at birth.

It’s not about being confused it’s about a deep, persistent feeling that something doesn’t fit. And while not all transgender or non-binary people experience gender dysphoria, for those who do, it can be emotionally intense and impact daily life.

What It Can Feel Like

• A strong desire to be treated as a different gender

• Discomfort with physical characteristics (e.g. voice, body shape, facial hair)

• Anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem

• Social withdrawal or self-neglect

• A longing to change name, pronouns, clothing, or appearance

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition where someone becomes intensely preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance flaws that are often minor or invisible to others. It’s not vanity; it’s a form of obsessive anxiety that can seriously affect daily life.

People with BDD may:

• Spend hours worrying about a specific body part (often the face, skin, or hair)

• Constantly check mirrors—or avoid them altogether

• Seek reassurance or compare themselves to others

• Engage in repetitive behaviors like skin picking or excessive grooming

• Feel distressed in social situations or avoid them entirely

What Causes It?

The exact cause isn’t fully known, but it likely involves:

• Genetics: family history of BDD, OCD, or depression

• Brain chemistry: imbalances in serotonin

• Environmental factors: bullying, trauma, or cultural pressure around appearance

BDD is treatable, and many people improve with support

Bereavement is the experience of losing someone important, typically through death, and the emotional journey that follows. It’s deeply personal, often painful, and never quite the same for any two people. Whether it’s a partner, parent, friend, or even a pet, grief can feel like a tidal wave sometimes crashing, sometimes quietly pulling at you.

What Grief Can Feel Like

Grief isn’t just sadness. It can include:

• Shock and disbelief, even if the death was expected

• Anger, guilt, or regret

• Loneliness or numbness

• Physical symptoms like fatigue, sleep issues, or aches

• Fluctuating emotions—some days feel okay, others unbearable

There’s no “right” way to grieve. Some people cry constantly, others feel nothing for weeks. Some want to talk, others retreat inward. All of it is valid.

Social anxiety disorder also called social phobia is more than just shyness. It’s a persistent, overwhelming fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected in social situations. For many, it starts in the teenage years and can affect everything from friendships to work life.

People with social anxiety often:

• Worry excessively before, during, and after social interactions

• Avoid situations like group conversations, public speaking, or eating in front of others

• Fear blushing, sweating, or appearing awkward

• Feel like they’re constantly being watched or judged

• Experience physical symptoms like nausea, trembling, or a racing heart

It can be triggered by:

• Genetics: family history of anxiety disorders

• Negative experiences: bullying, rejection, or humiliation

• Personality traits: being naturally introverted or sensitive

• Brain chemistry: imbalances in serotonin or overactive fear responses

Social anxiety is treatable, and many people see real improvement with support

Self-harm in children and young people is often a sign that they’re struggling to cope with intense emotions or situations. It’s not about seeking attention it’s a way to express pain when words feel impossible.

Why Children Might Self-Harm

According to the NSPCC and YoungMinds, some common triggers include:

• Depression, anxiety, or eating disorders

• Bullying or feeling isolated

• Low self-esteem or feeling “not good enough”

• Family conflict, grief, or trauma

• Emotional, physical, or sexual abuse

• Feeling numb or overwhelmed

For many, physical pain feels easier to manage than emotional pain. It can offer a temporary sense of control or relief.

If you're worried about a child, look out for:

• Unexplained cuts, bruises, burns, or bite marks

• Wearing long sleeves even in warm weather

• Withdrawal from friends and family

• Mood swings, anger outbursts, or risky behaviour

• Blood-stained clothing or hidden sharp objects

Tourette’s syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder that typically begins in childhood and is marked by motor and vocal tics—sudden, repetitive movements or sounds that are involuntary.

Key Features

• Motor tics: blinking, shrugging, facial twitches, or jerking movements

• Vocal tics: throat clearing, sniffing, grunting, or repeating words

• Tics often change over time and can be triggered by stress, excitement, or fatigue

• Most cases begin around age 6 and peak around age 10

What Causes It?

• Likely a mix of genetic and environmental factors

• Often runs in families

• More common in boys than girls

Many people with Tourette’s also experience:

• ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)

• OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder)

• Anxiety or mood disorders, especially in females

There’s no cure, but symptoms often improve with age. Treatment focuses on managing tics

Sensory sensitivities refer to how intensely someone experiences input from their senses like sound, light, touch, taste, and smell.

Some people are hypersensitive, meaning they feel things more strongly (e.g. loud noises might feel unbearable), while others are hyposensitive, meaning they might not notice sensory input as much and seek stronger stimulation.

Types of Sensory Sensitivities

• Hypersensitivity (Over-responsive)

  • Bright lights may feel blinding

  • Background noise can be overwhelming

  • Certain textures or fabrics may feel irritating

  • Strong smells or tastes might cause discomfort

ADHD - short for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how the brain processes attention, activity levels, and impulse control. It’s not about intelligence or effort; it’s about how the brain is wired to respond to the world.

ADHD symptoms fall into three main categories:

• Inattention: Easily distracted, forgetful, trouble focusing or following instructions

• Hyperactivity: Restlessness, fidgeting, difficulty staying seated or quiet

• Impulsivity: Interrupting, blurting out answers, acting without thinking

Most people with ADHD show a mix of these traits, but some lean more toward one type than another.

ADHD Through the Lifespan

• Childhood: Traits often emerge before age 12, but diagnosis usually happens after age 6 when behaviors stand out more clearly

• Adulthood: Many adults with ADHD were never diagnosed as children. They may struggle with organisation, time management, or relationships

Diagnosis is based on criteria from the DSM-5 and typically involves a specialist assessment. It’s important to rule out other conditions like anxiety, autism, or learning difficulties.

Support can include:

• Medication (e.g. stimulants like methylphenidate)

• Therapy (CBT, coaching, psychoeducation)

• Lifestyle strategies (routines, reminders, exercise)

ADHD isn’t just about challenges it can come with unique strengths:

• Creativity and out-of-the-box thinking

• High energy and enthusiasm

• Hyperfocus on topics of interest

• Quick decision-making in fast-paced environments

Adjustment disorder sometimes called stress response syndrome is a psychological condition triggered by a significant life change or stressful event. It’s not about the event itself being traumatic, but rather how intensely someone reacts to it.

Symptoms typically begin within three months of the stressor and may include:

• Feeling sad, hopeless, or tearful

• Anxiety, nervousness, or feeling overwhelmed

• Trouble sleeping or concentrating

• Withdrawal from social activities

• Difficulty functioning at work or school

• In some cases, thoughts of self-harm

These reactions are more intense than what’s considered typical for the situation, and they interfere with daily life.

Common Triggers

• Divorce or relationship breakdown

• Job loss or career changes

• Moving to a new place

• Illness or injury

• Retirement or other major life transitions

The good news? Adjustment disorder is highly treatable

Exam stress can have a serious impact on children's mental health, especially when pressure builds from multiple directions school, family, peers, and even social media.

According to Childline, young people report:

• Trouble sleeping, anxiety, and low mood

• Loss of self-confidence, sometimes leading to self-harm or suicidal thoughts

• Fear of disappointing parents or teachers, especially when comparing themselves to siblings or classmates

• Withdrawal from activities they enjoy, feeling numb or unmotivated

Teachers also notice that students often believe exam results will determine their entire future, which adds to the emotional weight.

Who’s Most at Risk?

Mentally Healthy Schools highlights that exam stress can affect:

• Children with special educational needs or existing mental health challenges

• High achievers who feel pressure to maintain top performance

• Kids with perfectionist tendencies or those facing intense parental expectations

Even primary school pupils can feel this pressure, though it tends to intensify in secondary school with GCSEs and A-levels looming.

Insomnia is one of the most common sleep disorders, but also one of the most misunderstood. It’s not just about having a rough night it’s a persistent pattern of sleep difficulties that affects your ability to function during the day.

Insomnia disorder is defined by:

• Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early

• Occurring at least three nights a week

• Lasting for three months or more

• Causing daytime issues like fatigue, poor concentration, or mood changes

Short-term insomnia (aka acute insomnia) is more common and usually triggered by stress, illness, or life changes. The good news? About 72% of people with acute insomnia return to normal sleep within a few weeks.

Causes of Insomnia

• Stress, anxiety, or depression

• Poor sleep habits (e.g. irregular bedtime, screen use before bed)

• Medical conditions like chronic pain, asthma, or menopause

• Environmental factors like noise, light, or uncomfortable bedding

• Lifestyle habits, caffeine, alcohol, or shift work

Trichotillomania often called hair-pulling disorder is a mental health condition where someone feels an irresistible urge to pull out their own hair, usually from the scalp, eyebrows, or eyelashes. It’s classified as a body-focused repetitive behaviour and often begins in childhood or adolescence.

What It Looks Like

• Compulsive hair pulling, often triggered by stress or boredom

• Relief or satisfaction after pulling, followed by guilt or shame

• Bald patches that may be hidden with hats, scarves, or makeup

• Some people may chew or swallow hair, which can cause medical issues

School refusal also known as Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA) is when a child or young person consistently struggles to attend school due to emotional distress. It’s not about being defiant or lazy; it’s often rooted in anxiety, trauma, or unmet needs

What It Can Look Like

• Tearfulness or panic before school

• Physical symptoms like stomach aches or headaches

• Refusing to leave the house or go into the building

• Leaving school mid-day or missing lessons

• Aggression or shutdowns, especially in the morning

Common Causes

• Bullying or friendship issues

• Academic pressure or learning difficulties

• Sensory overload or neurodivergence (e.g. autism, ADHD)

• Family stress, bereavement, or illness

• Feeling unsafe or unsupported in the school environment

Doctors liaising with schools is crucial for safeguarding children's health, supporting their education, and ensuring no child is left behind due to medical or emotional challenges. It’s not just about prescriptions or sick notes—it’s about building a bridge between health and learning.

Bulimia nervosa is a serious mental health condition and eating disorder marked by a cycle of binge eating followed by purging attempts to rid the body of food through vomiting, laxatives, fasting, or excessive exercise. It affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, and often goes unnoticed because many individuals maintain a “normal” weight.

The Cycle of Bulimia

• Bingeing: Eating large amounts of food quickly, often in secret, and feeling out of control

• Purging: Trying to compensate through unhealthy methods like vomiting or laxatives

• Emotional aftermath: Guilt, shame, and distress, which can reinforce the cycle

Psychological Impact

• Obsession with body image and weight

• Mood swings, anxiety, and depression

• Secretive behavior around food and eating

• Feeling disconnected during binges, like being on autopilot

Physical Consequences

• Tooth decay and sore throat from frequent vomiting

• Digestive issues, bloating, and constipation

• Fatigue, dizziness, and irregular periods

• Swollen glands and facial puffiness

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a behavioural condition typically diagnosed in childhood, marked by a persistent pattern of angry, defiant, and vindictive behaviour toward authority figures like parents, teachers, or other adults.

To meet the diagnostic criteria, behaviours must last at least six months and go beyond what's typical for a child’s age or development. These include:

• Angry or irritable mood: Easily loses temper, frequently annoyed, often resentful

• Argumentative or defiant behaviour: Regularly argues with adults, refuses to follow rules, deliberately annoys others

• Vindictiveness: Spiteful or seeks revenge, shown at least twice in six months

Severity Levels

• Mild: Symptoms appear in one setting (e.g. only at home)

• Moderate: Symptoms show up in two settings

• Severe: Symptoms occur across three or more settings

Causes & Risk Factors

ODD doesn’t have a single cause, but contributing factors include:

• Genetics: Family history of mental health conditions

• Temperament: Difficulty regulating emotions or frustration

• Parenting style: Harsh, inconsistent discipline or lack of supervision

• Environmental stressors: Family conflict, trauma, or peer reinforcement of defiant behaviour

Treatment Approaches

• Parent training: Helps caregivers respond consistently and calmly

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Teaches children emotional regulation and problem-solving

• Family therapy: Improves communication and reduces conflict

• Medication: Sometimes used if ODD coexists with ADHD or mood disorders

Bipolar affective disorder, often shortened to bipolar disorder, is a mental health condition marked by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These changes go far beyond typical ups and downs and can seriously affect daily life, relationships, and decision-making.

The Mood Cycle

People with bipolar disorder experience episodes of:

• Mania or hypomania: Feeling euphoric, energetic, or unusually irritable. May involve racing thoughts, impulsive decisions, reduced need for sleep, or inflated self-esteem.

• Depression: Feeling deeply sad, hopeless, or fatigued. May include loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep, and thoughts of self-harm.

Some individuals also experience mixed episodes, where symptoms of mania and depression occur simultaneously.

Types of Bipolar Disorder

• Bipolar I: At least one manic episode, often with depressive episodes.

• Bipolar II: Hypomanic episodes (less severe than mania) and major depressive episodes.

• Cyclothymia: Milder mood swings that don’t meet full criteria for bipolar I or II.

• Rapid cycling: Four or more mood episodes in a year.

Bipolar disorder is lifelong but manageable with the right support

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It’s not just about feeling shaken it’s when those feelings persist and disrupt daily life long after the danger has passed.

Core Symptoms

PTSD symptoms typically fall into four categories:

• Re-experiencing: Flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts

• Avoidance: Steering clear of reminders places, people, or conversations

• Negative changes in mood and thinking: Guilt, shame, numbness, or detachment

• Hyperarousal: Being constantly on edge, irritable, or having trouble sleeping

These symptoms can appear immediately or months even years after the trauma

PTSD is treatable even if it’s been years since the trauma

Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD) is a mental health condition where a person experiences intense focus and distress over physical symptoms even when those symptoms have no clear medical explanation or are disproportionate to any underlying condition.

What It Looks Like

• Persistent physical symptoms like pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath

• Excessive thoughts, feelings, or behaviors related to those symptoms

• Frequent medical visits, often without relief or clear diagnosis

• Viewing normal sensations as signs of serious illness

• Avoiding activity for fear of worsening symptoms

It’s not about “faking” illness these symptoms are real and distressing, even if no medical cause is found.

What Causes It?

SSD can stem from:

• Heightened body awareness and misinterpretation of sensations

• Health anxiety or past trauma

• Childhood neglect or chaotic environments

• Coexisting conditions like depression, anxiety, or phobias

Private CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) offers faster, more flexible mental health support for children and teens compared to NHS pathways, which can often involve long waiting times. These services are designed to help with a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and developmental challenges from anxiety and depression to ADHD, eating disorders, and trauma.

What Private CAMHS Offers

• Rapid access to assessments and treatment—often within days

• Specialist clinicians including child psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists

• Tailored treatment plans using CBT, play therapy, family therapy, and medication if needed

• Support for parents and schools to create a joined-up care approach

• In-person and online options, depending on location and need

Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder where someone experiences recurrent, unexpected panic attacks sudden surges of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes and often feel overwhelming or terrifying.

What a Panic Attack Feels Like

During an attack, symptoms may include:

• Racing heartbeat or palpitations

• Shortness of breath or choking sensation

• Chest pain or tightness

• Dizziness or feeling faint

• Sweating, trembling, or chills

• Nausea or stomach discomfort

• A sense of unreality or detachment

• Fear of dying, losing control, or “going crazy”

These episodes can strike without warning, and many people end up in A&E thinking they’re having a heart attack.

Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder and mental health condition where a person tries to keep their weight as low as possible often through extreme food restriction, excessive exercise, or purging behaviors like vomiting or using laxatives.

Key Signs and Symptoms

• Intense fear of gaining weight, even when underweight

• Distorted body image believing they’re overweight despite being very thin

• Skipping meals or eating very little

• Obsessive thoughts about food, calories, or “clean eating”

• Physical effects like dizziness, hair loss, dry skin, and feeling cold

• In women, periods may stop or not start at all

Psychological Impact

• Perfectionism and need for control

• Low self-esteem and intense self-criticism

• Denial of the seriousness of their condition

• Social withdrawal and secrecy around eating

Health Risks

• Malnutrition and organ damage

• Osteoporosis and muscle weakness

• Infertility and hormonal imbalances

• Increased risk of suicide and death if untreated