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For people with Down syndrome, family members, caregivers and professionals.
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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition in which an individual develops psychological symptoms in response to an extremely distressing experience. The symptoms can vary and
Every thorough mental health assessment should include an assessment of physical health to ensure that physical health problems are not affecting mental well-being in any way. This is true whether or
A parent of an individual with Down syndrome asked a question about stereotypies and self-stimulatory behavior. The parent shared that the individual made noises while watching videos on their iPad an
It is estimated that about 16-18% of people with Down syndrome also have autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group-USA DS-ASD Workgroup collaborated with Autism Speaks t
We received a question from a family member of an individual with Down syndrome who is anxious and fearful of bad weather, particularly thunderstorms. Thunder, lightning, strong winds, heavy rain, hai
EyeWiki is an Eye Encyclopedia developed by the American Academy of Ophthalmology with content contributed by ophthalmologists (eye physicians and surgeons). There is a Down syndrome page wit
A common and appropriate question is: Can a person be weaned off a psychotropic medication? A psychotropic medication is a medication prescribed to treat a psychological problem such as depression or
Key Points Testicular cancer is more common in men with Down syndrome compared to men without Down syndrome. Health care providers can check for testicular cancer during an annual physical exam. Testi
In January 2022, Suzanne Aaron, an information & outreach specialist from the Illinois Life Span Program of the Arc of Illinois, presented a webinar called "An Introduction t
We were asked about recurrence of strabismus that had been corrected by surgery in childhood. Strabismus is crossing of the eyes. The eyes of an individual with strabismus are not lined up properly an
We were sent a question about selective mutism and loss of speech. Selective mutism is defined as an anxiety condition in which a person with normal verbal skills is unable to speak in particular sett
The video below is a recording of a webinar called "Promoting Mental Health in Adolescents & Adults with Down Syndrome" presented by Brian Chicoine, MD on September 28, 2021.
Nearly all of us have experienced anxiety during our lives. We may feel anxious about a school exam, a new job, a dentist appointment, a disagreement with a friend, or other similar situations. This i
Depression is a mental health condition that is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and/or a decreased interest in things that an individual previously enjoyed. Depression is more common i
We discuss "I" statements in our social skills groups for individuals with Down syndrome. "I" statements are a way to share how we feel in a clear, calm, and respec
In May 2021, the Arc of Illinois hosted a webinar called, "An Introduction to Developmental Disability Resources, Organizations, and Terms." It was a webinar for family members and c
How can I find a therapist, psychiatrist, or other mental health provider with experience working with individuals with Down syndrome? Here are a few suggestions. Contact a Down syndrome cli
The PDF linked below is a copy of the second edition of Dr. McGuire and Dr. Chicoine's book originally published by Woodbine House Publishing in 2021. After Woodbine closed in 2022, the publis
The video below is a recording of a webinar presented by Brian Chicoine, MD and Katie Frank, PhD, OTR/L on March 28, 2021 as part of the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress 37th Annual Virtual Confer
It is estimated that 16-18% of people with Down syndrome also have autism spectrum disorder. The Down Syndrome-Autism Connection is a nonprofit organization that provides s
Title: Mental Wellness and Aging in Adults with Down Syndrome Date: October 27, 2020 Presenter: Brian Chicoine, MD Host Organization: Down Syndrome Association
The video below is a recording of a webinar presented by Brian Chicoine, MD and Katie Frank, PhD, OTR/L on April 28, 2020. Dr. Chicoine is the co-founder and medical director of the Adult Down Syndrom
What is self-injurious behavior? Self-injurious behavior (SIB) is behavior that an individual does that results in harm to their own body. These behaviors may include hitting oneself, striking a body
We received a question about a person with Down syndrome who was refusing to eat solids. He was found to have dental disease. He needed several fillings and had a couple baby teeth removed. The dentis
Please note: The information on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to serve as a substitute for a medical, psychiatric, mental health, or behavioral evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment plan by a qualified professional. We recommend you review the educational material with your health providers regarding the specifics of your health care needs.
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