ODD (Oppositional Defiance Disorder)

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I wanted to share a bit about ODD. It is, IMO, one of the most misunderstood illnesses. ODD affects the part of the brain responsible for impulse control and mood/aggression. Not all kids with ODD will be aggressive or violent. Thats important to know. ODD is generally diagnosed in the elementary school age. Its a hard illness for parents and the kiddo. Often times ODD is co-morbid with other conditions. ODD itself does not have any medication, but with therapy and treating any comorbid conditions it can get much easier to manage. Most children with ODD will "grow out" of it as they age and their hormones regulate. Teen years can be especially hard for kids and adults. Parenting a kid with ODD often comes with shame. Kids with ODD tend to "mask" their symptoms around strangers/friends and drop the mask around parents and/or school. That is not them manipulating, it is their safe spaces and they can breathe instead of fighting every single urge. If your child does have ODD I highly recommend therapy for them AND for you, separately with a different therapist. Not because there is anything wrong with you but because it can take such a toll on you that you'll benefit from some help making sure you're okay.