What you need to know
Some children with MPS may present with a psychological complication, however this isn’t the rule. It is important to discuss the child’s individual issues.
- Psychological and psychosocial difficulties:
- Fatigue and pain may make psychological problems worse
- Psychological distress may increase pain
- Depression, anxiety, low self-confidence, negative thinking, hopelessness, and desperation may occur
- Depression is often associated with chronic pain, disabilities
- Individuals may feel misunderstood, disbelieved, and/or alone
- Children may be self-conscious of physical differences.
- Pain
- Fear of pain and joint instability may lead to avoidance behaviors, and make dysfunction and disability worse
What you can do
- Counseling and support for pain may help
- Meditation and yoga could be helpful
- Antidepressants may be helpful
- May need help with adaptation and acceptance of issues and potential limitations.
- Some individuals need support for social skills development
- Misconceptions of abilities can cause insecurity and anxiety in social situations
- Make sure teaching strategies being used are appropriate for children who are already socially engaged.
Treat children who have MPS the same as you would with any other individual who might have a psychological condition. They may need:
- Behavioral supports
- Counseling
- Medication