Behavior Disorders

Behavior disorders are a group of psychiatric conditions characterized by difficulty controlling emotions, aggressive and disruptive behaviors, and academic or social problems. These conditions can present differently depending on the individual’s age and stage of development. General physicians may diagnose these disorders based on criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Some common symptoms include aggression towards people or animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness or stealing, disregard for rules, difficulty in maintaining relationships, and difficulty with school work. Treatment often includes a combination of medication, counseling, and behavioral therapies to manage symptoms.

Behavior disorders are a type of mental health disorder related to children and adolescents. The primary symptoms of behavior disorders are difficulty controlling emotions, aggressive behavior towards others, intense outbursts of anger or tantrums, lack of impulse control, and destructive behaviors. Behavior disorders can also involve substance abuse and defiance towards authority figures and may lead to criminal activity. People with behavior disorders often struggle in school and other activities due to difficulty with interpersonal relationships. If left untreated, this type of mental health disorder can lead to more serious issues later on in life.

Depression is a complex condition and can manifest in many different ways, making it difficult to diagnose. Major types of depression include:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): This is the most common type and involves feeling down or depressed for periods of at least two weeks with additional symptoms such as fatigue and changes in appetite.
• Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD): This form of depression consists of symptoms lasting two years or more.
• Postpartum Depression (PPD): This form occurs after giving birth and can involve feelings of exhaustion, sadness, guilt, and loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed prior to becoming pregnant.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Characterized by cycles of low moods during certain times of the year such as winter months, SAD is believed to be related to decreased sunlight exposure.

The conventional treatment for behavior disorders typically involves a combination of therapies and medication. Psychotherapy is often recommended as the primary treatment, as it helps to address underlying issues that contribute to these behaviors. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be used to teach individuals how to better cope with stress and develop healthy coping strategies. Medication may also be prescribed if necessary for additional symptom management. Parents and families are often an essential part of treatment, as they provide support, guidance, and structure for their loved one going through treatment. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity or establishing regular bedtimes can help improve overall mental health.

The orthomolecular understanding of behavior disorders is that underlying biological and biochemical causes may be contributing to the symptoms of the disorder. The majority of individuals with a behavior disorder will have a methylation imbalance, which can alter gene expression. The orthomolecular approach evaluates complex supplementation strategies as potential treatments for symptoms. Additionally, it looks at environmental factors such as sleep deprivation, environmental allergens, and stress levels that can influence behavior. It also examines how nutrition, vitamins, and minerals can affect the functioning of the brain for those with a behavior disorder. 

Mensah Medical’s protocol is designed to normalize key chemical factors that influence neurotransmitter production and activity. Through testing, Mensah Medical’s physicians determine your key biochemical imbalances and use compounded supplementation to restore these markers to their optimal level. By correcting imbalances of essential nutrients in the body, Mensah Medical’s approach is safe, natural, and effective. If your loved one is on pharmaceutical medication, Mensah Medical physicians will work to first restore your chemistry, rebuild your foundation, and then look to work with your physician to slowly decrease your medication.

• Out-of-control behavior disorders can be successfully treated at Mensah Medical with individualized, targeted nutrient therapy protocols, nutrition, and outside therapy. If your child or teen has behavioral problems that show up more often, last longer and are more intense than average, seek treatment. We encourage individuals to seek care before their symptoms develop into more extreme behaviors. 

Behavior disorders can have a variety of causes, including inherited genetic factors and environmental influences. Dr. William J. Walsh, Ph.D., of Walsh Research Institute, found that more than 70% of people with behavioral and mental disorders have a methylation imbalance. The body’s methyl groups turn genes off or on by affecting interactions between DNA and the cell’s protein-making machinery genes. Because the methylation cycle is essential for mental and physical health, the basic nutrients necessary for the normal function of this cycle are critical. Too much or too little of important methyl groups can cause a methylation imbalance. Being overmethylated or undermethylated combined with pyrrole disorder, elevated toxic metals, nutrient deficiencies, and abnormal copper levels is often the “root cause” of individuals with severe behavioral issues.

At Mensah Medical, we also acknowledge gut dysfunction (malabsorption, hypoglycemia, and leaky gut), dysbiosis (which is an imbalance between good and bad bacteria), yeast disorders, and autoimmune disorders as key contributors to many pediatric behavioral challenges.

Some potential environmental contributors may include stressful home or school environments, inadequate parental supervision, or poor social skills. In addition, some medical conditions, such as head injuries or changes in hormone levels, may be associated with behavior disorders. It is also important to note that behaviors may not always have an identifiable cause, as certain cases may be attributed to multiple factors.

Risk factors for behavior disorders can include a combination of biological, environmental, and lifestyle elements. Biological factors may include a family history of mental illness or a genetic predisposition to mood swings or impulsivity. Environmental influences can include exposure to violence, physical or verbal abuse, or neglect. Lifestyle factors associated with increased risk may include certain types of drug use, poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, and inadequate sleep. In some cases, even an individual’s temperament can contribute to their susceptibility to developing a behavior disorder.

Behavior disorders can have a number of serious and long-term implications, including academic difficulties, difficulty forming and maintaining relationships, illegal activity such as substance abuse or theft, and even self-harm. Additionally, individuals with behavior disorders may struggle with feelings of isolation and low self-esteem due to the symptoms associated with the disorder. In extreme cases, disruption in behavioral patterns can lead to serious mental health issues such as depression or suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

Early intervention and preventive measures can help reduce the risk of developing a behavior disorder. Early detection and timely access to mental health services are crucial in preventing, or at least minimizing, the symptoms associated with the disorder. Programs that focus on creating supportive environments, emphasizing healthy behaviors, providing regular check-ups with mental health professionals, and teaching individuals coping strategies to manage their emotions may also be beneficial. Additionally, having an understanding of family history and genetic predisposition towards certain behaviors can help identify those at risk for behavior disorders and provide interventions accordingly.

Diagnosis of behavior disorders is typically based on a comprehensive assessment of the individual’s psychological, behavioral, and environmental factors. This includes an evaluation of family dynamics, medical history, academic performance, interpersonal relationships, and any other relevant factors. Additionally, testing for mental health issues such as anxiety or depression may be conducted to rule out other conditions that could be causing the behaviors. A physical examination may also be performed to rule out any possible medical causes for the symptoms. Once these assessments have been completed, a diagnosis can then be made based on the criteria outlined in the DSM-5.

Lifestyle and home remedies may be beneficial for individuals with behavior disorders. Establishing a regular sleep pattern, eating healthy meals that complement your biochemical imbalances, avoiding excessive caffeine and sugar intake, engaging in physical activity daily, and having plenty of time to relax can all have positive effects on mental health. It is also important to practice mindfulness or relaxation exercises such as meditation or yoga to reduce stress levels. Additionally, creating an environment that is consistent and supportive can help individuals feel secure and manage their emotions more effectively. Implementing structure into the home routine by having clear expectations and rules while encouraging positive behaviors can also prevent outbursts.

Alternative or natural medicine can be beneficial in the treatment of behavior disorders. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify their patterns of thinking and behavior that can lead to extreme behaviors and develop healthier strategies. Mindfulness exercises like yoga and meditation, as well as relaxation techniques, can also help control stress levels. Essential oils such as lavender oil or chamomile oil may be used to help relax or soothe the individual. 

Prior to your first appointment at Mensah Medical, you will be required to complete a new patient intake form as well as a patient history form. These forms must be submitted to Mensah Medical before an appointment can be scheduled. For Outreach Clinic appointments, these forms must be submitted one week before the scheduled Outreach. For established patients, prior to your follow-up, you will be required to complete a progress report. This must be submitted via your Elation Passport at least 72 hours before the appointment.

At Mensah Medical, we run lab work and blood tests to confirm your bio-individual needs. If, during the appointment, the doctors deem it necessary, they may order additional testing such as hair analysis, G.I. Map, SAM/SAH Methylation Profile, or others. The physicians will create an individualized nutrient protocol to address each of the imbalances presented. Treatment and long-term monitoring will be facilitated by the nursing staff, Dr. Mensah, and Dr. Bowman. Formal follow-ups on an individual’s progression will be done every six months to ensure biochemical levels and symptoms are responding appropriately.