P01-172 - Overview of Child Psychiatry in a Developing Country

Abstract

Background

Various epidemiological studies indicates that emotional & behavior problems in children are equally prevalent in developing & developed countries. In a developing country such as Bangladesh the daily livelihood & combating common childhood diseases are the foremost concern, and the mental health of children is often neglected.

Objectives

This study will review an overview of child psychiatry in a developing country, focusing on the lack of existing infrastructure, challenges facing children mental health services & what steps to be taken to develop mental health services in Bangladesh.

Methods

Critical review of various literature on the topic.

Results

Child psychiatry is gravely under recognized & underdeveloped in Bangladesh. There is lack of basic infrastructure in the field of child psychiatry. Top most mental disorders amongst children in Bangladesh are behavior disorders & anxiety disorders. These problems are not just restricted to urban regions of Bangladesh; there is also significant levels of emotional problems amongst children in rural areas of Bangladesh.

Conclusion

Poverty, malnutrition, illiteracy, & in recent years, through rapid urbanization of the country, the social & family structure is breaking down, which is contributing in development of mental health disorders amongst children. There is definite lack of infrastructure, awareness & availability of mental health services for children. However, plenty of avenues exist, through which child psychiatric services can be developed in the country.