This is a book that every parent, grandparent, family member, social worker, childcare provider and educator must have. It presents, reviews and discusses the serious dark side of pediatrics, children and adolescents with psychiatric and mental health issues and conditions, their warning signs and symptoms and directions for help, care and intervention. It guides adults who are in a position to make a difference with early intervention to be diligent and recognize signs of children having mental disorders, anxiety or depression, or at risk for suicidal behavior.

Other topics addressed are obsessive-compulsive behavior, conduct disorder, eating disorders, PANDAS and developmental learning disorders like autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactive disorder. More sensitive topics like gender dysphoria and obesity are reviewed and discussed. There are comprehensive reviews of substance abuse, alcohol and marijuana abuse disorders, PTSD, child schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Identification and early intervention for mental illness in children does make a big difference in their ultimate outcome.

• PANDAS is a real disorder and its occurrence is increasing!

• Eating Disorders are not just a fad!

• There is a physiological reason why gender dysphoria may occur!

• PTSD does occur in children and adolescents!

• Obesity is not always genetic!

• Substance abuse can occur in any household!

• Not all children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder are autistic!

• Identification and early intervention of mental illness in children and adolescents makes a big difference!