DB Response Discussion Question: In your opinion, are certain mood disorders overly diagnosed in children and adolescents? Prompt: Respond to each student (individually). Do you agree or disagree? What would be a possible alternative? Student 1: The question of whether specific mood disorders are excessively diagnosed in children and adolescents remains a contentious issue in the mental health field. Various perspectives exist, and opinions on this matter differ based on individual viewpoints, research findings, and cultural considerations. Critics argue that certain mood-related symptoms, such as irritability or mood swings, may fall within the spectrum of normal developmental variations, leading to potential overdiagnosis. Challenges in establishing precise diagnostic criteria for mood disorders in children, the influence of external factors, and concerns about stigmatization and overmedication contribute to reservations about the accuracy of some diagnoses. On the contrary, proponents of early diagnosis assert that genuine cases of mood disorders do exist in this demographic. They emphasize the importance of identifying and treating such cases promptly to prevent long-term negative consequences. Increased awareness, reduced stigma, advancements in research, and the recognition of the significance of early intervention are cited as factors contributing to more accurate diagnoses and improved mental health outcomes for children and adolescents (SpringLauren, 2014). Striking a balance between cautious diagnosis and providing essential support is crucial to ensure accurate identification and effective intervention for those who genuinely require mental health assistance. It is imperative to consider individual cases, cultural nuances, and the evolving landscape of mental health practices and research (Acquazzino et al., 2017). Student2: I think ADHD, anxiety, and tic disorders are overly diagnosed in modern day and I find this is related to social media many of times. Some individuals use social media to let their followers know they are not alone in their mental health disorders, but some of these followers tend to use this to self- diagnose. Billie Eilish and her Tourette's disorder is a prime example of this when she posted on TikTok a few years ago. I have many teens come into my hospital stating they have tics or try to exemplify themselves having tics, when in reality they are either seeking attention from their peers and family members or they admit later in there stay that they had seen videos of someone else with the disorder displaying these symptoms. ADHD appears to be another disorder that is overly diagnosed, whether it is due to overlapping symptoms (with anxiety for example), other learning disorders, greater awareness of the disorder, or greater accessibility to resources to be diagnosed are all possible causes. Studies have shown that diagnosis of ADHD has nearly doubled over the last two decades (Herndon, 2021). An additional cause is related to DSM V diagnostic criteria changes where lower threshold has been made in regards to symptoms and age, for example, and different symptoms that can be present in adolescents verses adults that is (Herndon, 2021).