Detailed contribution information
| Contribution title | The Journey of an Adolescent: A Case Report |
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| Contribution code | D3.052 |
| Authors | |
| Form of presentation | Poster |
| Topic |
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| Abstract |
During childhood and adolescence, there is a significant increase in the prevalence of mental health disorders. Clinical presentations vary, and therapeutic approaches should be tailored to the individual’s needs and capabilities. Our aim is to depict the journey of an adolescent girl through a concise description of her symptoms, possible etiopathogenetic factors in the development of the disorder, and the treatment process. We present a 19-year-old female patient who was under long-term outpatient treatment by a child and adolescent psychiatrist. Throughout the course of her treatment, her clinical presentation included polymorphic symptomatology: hypersensitivity accompanied by pronounced anxiety, which, despite its intensity, never progressed into a psychotic disorder, separation difficulties, obsessive-compulsive elements, and symptoms of auto- and hetero-aggression. Due to her functional impairments, she transitioned to homeschooling. In this patient, we highlight predisposing risk factors for the development of a mental disorder, including cerebral palsy, a family history of psychiatric disorders, a less integrated psychological structure, and limited social relationships. Precipitating factors included stressors such as peer bullying and the death of family members. Throughout treatment, the patient had family support combined with a personal motivation for change. This, along with a strong therapeutic alliance and pharmacological treatment, led to the stabilization of her mental health and returning to school. Today, the patient is a young woman courageously working towards achieving her goals. This "journey of an adolescent" emphasizes the importance of intrinsic patient motivation in the treatment process, as well as the value of an empathetic and supportive therapeutic approach. |