Although rare, psychotic disorders can occur in children. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for prognosis.
Psychotic disorders, while rare in childhood, can occur and require prompt clinical attention. Hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and behavioral disturbances are among the principal clinical features.
Early Warning Signs
Auditory or visual hallucinations, bizarre or delusional beliefs, social withdrawal, and precipitous decline in academic functioning should prompt immediate psychiatric evaluation.
A multidisciplinary treatment approach is essential. Antipsychotic pharmacotherapy, individual psychotherapy, and comprehensive family psychoeducation constitute the core treatment components. Early intervention is of paramount importance for optimizing long-term prognosis and minimizing functional impairment.
Doç. Dr. Mehtap Eroğlu
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. Over 15 years of clinical experience.
