Conversion Disorder in Children & Adolescents

Overview

Conversion disorder, also known as functional neurological symptom disorder, occurs when a child or adolescent experiences physical issues like paralysis, numbness, blindness, deafness, or seizures without any underlying medical cause. These symptoms can significantly impact their daily life, affecting their performance in school, their friendships, and family relationships.

It’s important to understand that children with conversion disorder are not faking or imagining their symptoms. The symptoms are very real but arise from the body not functioning properly rather than from a medical problem. Often, these physical issues stem from unexpressed stress or emotions, and they may serve as a way for the body to cope with that stress.

Symptoms

Conversion disorder symptoms usually affect either movement or sensory perception.

Motor Symptoms:

Common motor issues include:

  • Weakness or paralysis in one or more limbs.
  • Difficulty walking or controlling movements.
  • Prolonged weakness that doesn’t lead to muscle atrophy and has normal reflexes.

Other movement-related symptoms may include:

  • Muscle spasms or stiffness (e.g., in the neck or voice).
  • Shaking or tremors.
  • Trouble swallowing.
  • Difficulty standing or sitting up straight, while still able to move legs when lying down or sitting.

These motor symptoms are often accompanied by pain or other unusual sensations.

Sensory Symptoms:

Sensory issues may involve:

  • Loss of sensation or abnormal feelings, particularly in the hands and feet.
  • Symptoms that don’t follow typical medical patterns (e.g., numbness limited to the hands and feet or numbness starting exactly at the body’s midline).

Other sensory symptoms can include:

  • Double vision.
  • Temporary blindness.
  • Hearing loss, which may affect one or both ears.
  • Auditory or visual hallucinations.

Despite these symptoms, medical examinations typically show that the sensory pathways are functioning normally.

Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures:

These seizures are episodes of unusual shaking in the arms and legs, accompanied by a seeming loss of awareness or consciousness. They may resemble epileptic seizures but are caused by mental health issues rather than structural problems in the brain. The term “psychogenic” indicates that the origin is psychological, not neurological.

Causes

The exact causes of conversion disorder in children are not well understood, but certain circumstances and medical conditions may increase the likelihood of developing it.

  • Personality: Unhealthy personality traits are often associated with conversion disorder.
  • Environment: A history of childhood abuse or neglect, as well as stressful life events, can contribute to the disorder’s development.
  • Genetic and Physical Factors: Having a neurological condition that leads to similar symptoms, such as epilepsy, can increase the risk of conversion disorder. For example, non-epileptic seizures are more common in individuals with epilepsy.

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider diagnoses conversion disorder through a combination of physical and neurological examinations, diagnostic tests, and imaging studies.

To diagnose conversion disorder, the doctor looks for four key criteria:

  • The child has one or more symptoms that affect movement or sensory perception.
  • Their symptoms do not match any recognized medical conditions.
  • There is no other explanation for their symptoms, such as a different health issue or mental health problem.
  • The symptoms are causing significant disruption in their life, such as affecting school performance and relationships.

Treatment Options

When a child is diagnosed with conversion disorder, it’s common for families to feel confused or skeptical about the idea that the child’s symptoms don’t have a medical cause. It’s essential to recognize that these symptoms are very real and can be distressing for your child; they are not simply “in their head.” The good news is that conversion disorder is highly treatable.

The medical team will explain how the mind and body interact, which can be a helpful starting point for everyone involved in your child’s care. The primary goal of treatment is to help your child return to age-appropriate activities. This process may begin with re-establishing regular daily routines and encouraging your child to return to school and social activities.

For young people who experience weakness, tremors, or sensory loss, additional rehabilitation may be necessary. This may include:

  • Counseling: Cognitive behavioral therapy or other therapeutic approaches can help your child manage anxiety and address their thoughts about their symptoms. Counseling may also assist in dealing with underlying stressors and any co-occurring mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
  • Physical or Occupational Therapy: These therapies aim to strengthen and relax muscles that may have weakened or tightened due to inactivity.
  • Medications: These can support counseling by helping manage stress and anxiety and addressing any related mental health conditions.

Patient Success Stories

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we are committed to providing the best possible care for children with Conversion Disorder in Children & Adolescents. Here’s why families trust us:

“Our child was struggling with Conversion Disorder, and we didn't know where to turn. The team at Gertrude's Children's Hospital was amazing - they worked with us to develop a personalized treatment plan that helped our child manage their symptoms and thrive.”

Sarahparent of a child with Conversion Disorder

Conversion Disorder in Children & Adolescents

Caring for a child or adolescent with conversion disorder involves a supportive and understanding approach. Here are some ways parents can help:
- Educate Yourself: Learn about conversion disorder to better understand your child’s condition and symptoms. This knowledge can help you provide informed support.
- Encourage Open Communication: Create a safe space for your child to express their feelings and concerns. Encourage them to talk about their symptoms and any stressors they might be facing.
- Seek Professional Help: Work with healthcare professionals, including therapists and doctors, to create a comprehensive treatment plan. Ensure your child attends all recommended therapy sessions.
- Promote Normal Routines: Encourage your child to maintain regular daily activities, including school, hobbies, and social interactions, as much as possible. Consistency can help them feel more stable.
- Be Patient and Understanding: Recognize that the symptoms are real and distressing for your child, even if they don’t have a clear medical cause. Avoid dismissing their feelings or expressing frustration.
- Support Therapy Goals: Reinforce therapy goals at home by encouraging your child to practice coping strategies learned in counseling or physical therapy.
- Focus on Strengths: Highlight your child’s strengths and achievements to build their self-esteem. Celebrate small victories in their recovery process.
- Manage Stress: Help your child develop healthy coping mechanisms for stress, such as relaxation techniques, exercise, or mindfulness practices.
- Monitor for Co-occurring Issues: Be aware of any additional mental health concerns, such as anxiety or depression, and ensure they are addressed in treatment.
- Stay Positive: Maintain a hopeful outlook and reassure your child that recovery is possible. Your encouragement can make a significant difference in their journey.
- By providing a supportive and nurturing environment, you can help your child navigate the challenges of conversion disorder and work toward recovery.
With the right support and treatment, many individuals can fully recover from conversion disorder. As your child's mental health improves, the symptoms should become less noticeable and may eventually disappear altogether. Your encouragement and involvement in their journey can be incredibly valuable.

Conversion disorder is a mental health condition that can arise unpredictably. Therefore, there’s no guaranteed way to prevent it or reduce the risk of developing it.

It's important to know that conversion disorder is not life-threatening, but it can significantly impact your child's mental health and overall well-being. Kids with conversion disorder often struggle with serious issues that can prevent them from going to school or enjoying activities they once loved.
To help your child achieve the best possible outcome, it's crucial to be proactive. Here are some key points to consider:

- Seek Help Early: Don’t wait too long to get medical care. The sooner you reach out for help, the better.
- Stay Open-Minded: Encourage your child to accept their diagnosis. Denial can make it harder for them to move forward.
- Communicate with Healthcare Providers: Build a strong, open relationship with your child's healthcare team. Good communication can make a big difference in their treatment.
- Follow the Treatment Plan: Ensure your child sticks to the treatment plan recommended by their healthcare provider. Consistency is essential for recovery.

Contact Us

Don’t hesitate to take the first step toward getting your child the care they need. Contact Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital today to schedule a consultation or appointment. Our team is here to provide support and guidance through this challenging journey.

Contact us today to learn more about our Conversion Disorder in Children & Adolescents treatment options.

Book Appointment