Developmental Disability

What is a developmental disability?

A developmental disability occurs when there is a delay or other concern about a child’s growth or development. These disabilities are often present at birth, but may not be obvious until a child becomes older. 

Disabilities can cause abnormalities in learning, speech, physical abilities, or behavior patterns. Treatment at a1 Family Psychiatry helps your child overcome challenges associated with a disability.

What are examples of developmental disabilities?

Examples of developmental disabilities include:

• Developmental delays
• Emotional disturbances
• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
• Intellectual disabilities
• Hearing impairment
• Hearing loss
• Specific learning disabilities
• Cerebral palsy
• Down syndrome
• Speech or language impairment
• Blindness
• Deafness 
• Rett syndrome
• Fragile-X-syndrome

These conditions can last into adulthood. Treatment helps your child learn the skills needed to flourish in their environment and overcome common everyday challenges linked to their disability. It can also boost their mood, self-confidence, and overall quality of life.

What increases the risk of a developmental disability?

Developmental disability risk factors include:

• Chromosomal or genetic abnormalities
• Substance use (alcohol or drugs) during pregnancy
• Preterm birth
• Low birth weight
• Infections during pregnancy 
• Toxin exposure

However, many times, the exact cause of a developmental disability isn’t known and can’t be helped. 

How are developmental disabilities diagnosed?

Diagnosing a developmental disability depends on the type of condition your child has. They may undergo screening tests, a physical exam, lab testing, and questionnaires about developmental milestones (you may need to complete the questionnaires). 

The team completes a psychiatric evaluation to screen for additional mental health disorders. They may ask questions about how your child interacts with other people, their family history of disabilities, and your child’s behavior and grades at school. 

How is a developmental disability treated?

Depending on the type of developmental disability your child has been diagnosed with, they may need physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, social skills therapy, or medication management. 

a1 Family Psychiatry offers therapy sessions to help your child work through difficult situations, behavioral problems, emotion regulation, depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. 

The team follows up to ensure an effective outcome and is always available to address concerns or questions you may have throughout treatment.

Schedule an in-person or telehealth developmental disability evaluation at a1 Family Psychiatry by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.