Neurodevelopmental conditions
Neurodevelopmental conditions are of central interest internationally. The subject is complex and multidimensional, studied by researchers from a variety of scientific fields. Numerous studies have been conducted on this topic, with each advancement raising new questions.
Neurodevelopmental conditions are directly related to children but are not an exclusive problem of childhood, as they continue into adulthood and require specialised support to address the problems accompanying each condition.
In the narrow sense of the term, neurodevelopmental conditions include conditions that begin during infancy, childhood, or adolescence, where there is underdevelopment or regression of functions closely linked to the biological maturation of the central nervous system. The prevalence in the population exceeds 10%, and they are increasingly described by the term "neurodiversity," while individuals are referred to as "neurodivergent." Neurodevelopmental conditions cause varying degrees of difficulty in social integration, education, and general adaptation to situations. Therefore, they often have further emotional and economic consequences for families and society at large.
According to the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5 diagnostic criteria), neurodevelopmental disorders include: Intellectual Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), communication disorders (speech and language), specific learning disorders (reading, writing, or mathematics), motor disorders (coordination of movements, tics, or Tourette's syndrome). Undoubtedly, there will be many significant additions to the above group in the coming years. The important thing is that all these conditions have several common mechanisms, which is why they tend to coexist. In practice, neurodevelopmental disorders are combined, and it is not very common for an individual to present with only one of these.
Additionally, research is showing that neurodivergent individuals have much higher probabilities compared to the general population of developing enuresis, encopresis, personality disorders in childhood, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, transgender identity issues, social phobia (and other anxiety disorders), impulse control problems (pyromania, kleptomania, trichotillomania, dermatillomania), bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress, chronic fatigue/chronic pain syndrome, pseudo-neurological problems, conduct disorders, substance use, or criminal acts, if left without support/treatment. This is why they are increasingly becoming a focal point of psychiatric research, highlighting the importance of addressing these issues as early as possible in life. Monorodi Association is dedicated to supporting neurodivergent individuals and their families, ensuring they enjoy a better quality of life.