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Where to reach emergency help
If you or someone you know is in danger of harming themselves or others, then immediately call 988 and you will be connected to an emergency help line which has someone who can help you with your particular emergency. This number is covered 24 hours a day by trained emergency providers.
Websites with helpful information
American Psychological Association
Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
Maryland Disability Law Center
Maryland Psychological Association
National Institute of Mental Health
Somerset County Public Schools
Wicomico County Public Schools
Worcester County Public Schools
Useful information from Dr. Todd
Sleep, an overlooked health factor
by Mark R. Todd, Ph.D., Director
Sleep is much more important than we realize. Sleep is critical for the healing of the body and the mind. Without adequate sleep, we are more prone to becoming ill and more likely for that illness to be prolonged. It is also important in reducing the likelihood of physical injuries. Athletes are more likely to sustain injuries if they are sleep deprived. Drivers are more prone to car accidents if they are not receiving the sleep they need.
Inadequate sleep is a significant problem that interferes with children and adolescents learning. Not only does being tired interfere with alertness and the ability to focus, but not obtaining adequate sleep significantly interferes with the retention of information learned the day before. If your child is not doing well in school, then you want to examine how much sleep they are obtaining. The average teenager requires 9 1/2 hours of sleep. It is rare that I speak to a teenage who sleeps 9 1/2 hours a night.
Mental health is also adversely affected by a lack of adequate sleep. Anxiety disorders are often more severe when a person is tired. Depression and irritability are worsened by inadequate sleep. It is important to note that depression can also cause an increase or decrease in sleep. Children who have difficulty regulating their mood can become very emotional when they are exhausted.
In summary, many of us are sleep deprived. Some of us have difficulty sleeping. We may worry about concerns that keep us awake. Others have developed habits that interfere with obtaining the sleep needed. Sometimes medical problems are preventing us from obtaining a deep, restorative sleep.
If you have tried to improve your sleep but have not been successful, then consider a mental health evaluation to identify psychological factors that may be interfering with the rest you need. There is hope. While it can be difficult to change one's sleep habits, we can help you make changes that promote a healthier sleep behavior. Sleep on it and call us in the morning.
