Introduction Spina Bifida is a birth defect that occurs when the spine and spinal cord don’t form properly. It falls under the umbrella of neural tube defects (NTDs), which are conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord or spine. Definition Spina bifida, a neural tube defect, is the result of the defective fusion of one or …
Spina Bifida in Children: Early Intervention and Rehabilitation Read More »
Definition of Dyscalculia Dyscalculia is a specific learning disability that impairs a person’s ability to understand and work with numbers. It disrupts the typical development of arithmetic skills and affects a person’s confidence in handling everyday tasks involving math. Research suggests, it is largely brain-based, with differences observed in areas of the brain responsible for …
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)—also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease—is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to the loss of muscle control. Causes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis The causes of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) are not fully understood, but research points to a combination of genetic, environmental, …
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a serious illness that slowly damages the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. These nerve cells control the muscles that help us move, speak, eat, and breathe. Over time, people with ALS lose the ability to do these things because their muscles get weaker and …
Definition of Schizophrenia Schizophrenia is a serious mental health disorder marked by profound disruptions in thought, perception, emotion, and behavior. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), individuals with schizophrenia often experience persistent delusions, hallucinations (commonly hearing voices), disorganized thinking, and impaired functioning across social and occupational domains. Types of Schizophrenia Though now considered part …
Definition of Phobias Phobias are classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a type of phobic anxiety disorder. These disorders involve a persistent, excessive, and unreasonable fear or anxiety triggered by the presence or anticipation of a specific object or situation. The intensity of this fear often leads individuals to avoid the trigger altogether, …
Definition of Panic Disorder Panic disorder is a mental health condition marked by recurring and unexpected panic attacks—sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that reach their peak within minutes. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), these attacks are often accompanied by symptoms such as a racing heart, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, or …
Definition of Dyslexia Dyslexia is a specific learning disorder that primarily affects reading and language processing. Individuals with dyslexia have difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition, poor spelling, and decoding. These challenges occur despite normal intelligence and adequate educational opportunities, and they stem from differences in how the brain processes written and spoken language. …
What is Disability ? Disability is a broad term that refers to physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairments that may limit a person’s ability to perform certain activities. Disabilities can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired due to injury, illness, or aging. While disabilities present challenges, they do not define a person’s potential, capabilities, …
Meaning of Mental Illness According to the Persons with Disabilities (P W D) Act, 1995, “Mental Illness” refers to any mental disorder excluding mental retardation. In modern terminology, mental retardation is more appropriately referred to as intellectual disability, and it is treated as a distinct category of disability under the Act. Understanding Mental Illness Mental …
Definition of Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD) Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD) one of the most common mental disorders, affecting 5–8% of children, primarily boys, and often continuing into adulthood. It impacts learning and daily functioning, characterized by three main features: Inattention – Difficulty staying focused. Hyperactivity – Excessive movement, fidgeting, or talking. Impulsivity – Acting without thinking, often leading …
Definition Emotional and Behavioral Disorders (E B D) refer to conditions that impact emotional regulation and behavior, interfering with daily life, relationships, and learning. These include anxiety, depression, A D H D, and conduct disorders. Characteristics E B D can be categorized into emotional, behavioral, and cognitive aspects. 1. Emotional Characteristics Excessive fear, anxiety, or …
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurological condition that affects brain development, leading to challenges in social interaction, communication, and behavior. It includes various subtypes, each with unique characteristics. Types of Autism Spectrum Disorder 1. Asperger’s Syndrome Previously considered separate from autism, Asperger’s Syndrome shared similarities but lacked significant language or cognitive development delays. Individuals with …
Definition Developmental delay occurs when a child does not reach expected milestones in motor, cognitive, social, or emotional skills. According to the World Health Organization, this delay can affect a child’s ability to interact, learn, and function in daily life. Child Development Child development encompasses more than physical growth—it includes cognitive, social, and emotional progress. …
Definition of Intellectual Disability Intellectual disability is characterized by a significantly reduced ability to understand new or complex information, learn, and apply new skills. Classification Intellectual disability is categorized based on IQ levels Groups IQ Proportion of all mentally Retarded(%) Profound 0-20 5 Severe 20-35 20 Moderate …
