Delayed mental and speech development is a child's lagging behind in psycho-emotional development compared to his or her peers. DMSD is indicated by speech impairment, difficulties with concentration and memory impairment, deviations from certain behavioral norms, etc. In this condition, a child cannot normally perceive and analyze information, and it is difficult for him or her to communicate with other people.
All of this affects learning and life in general. However, the diagnosis of DMSD is not a sentence, as in most cases the condition can be corrected. With timely treatment, such children can catch up with their peers and master the necessary age-appropriate skills over time.
The main causes of DMSD
Delayed mental and speech development is not a congenital pathology. In most cases, this condition develops against the background of disorders of the nervous system. The most common causes of mental retardation include the following:
- hypoxia;
- severe infections in the first months of life;
- intrauterine infections;
- birth trauma;
- damage to the cervical spine;
- genetic predisposition;
- traumatic brain injury;
- epilepsy.
In addition, psychological trauma can cause mental retardation. It can also be caused by improper upbringing or upbringing in a dysfunctional family. The lack of adult communication with the child and the lack of proper response to his or her needs leads to disorders in the development of speech and the formation of mental processes.
When do I need to seek professional help?
You can suspect DMSD in a child by the following signs:
- does not cry out and does not respond to words or gestures until 4 months;
- did not start babbling until she was 9 months old;
- did not speak a word until 12-14 months;
- does not speak even simple words at the age of 2.5, does not respond to appeals;
- has too small a vocabulary at 2-2,5 years old;
- speaks very slowly at the age of 3 or, on the contrary, speaks quickly but unintelligibly;
- has hearing problems;
- speaks in too simple phrases at 3,5 years old.
In addition, the child may have a weak memory, difficulty concentrating, and a narrow range of emotions. The child may be aggressive and avoid peers due to communication problems. It is difficult for him to process information and make decisions.
It is difficult to diagnose speech developmental delays before the age of 4 until all skills are fully formed, but if you notice signs of DMSD, do not delay your visit to the doctor. At an early age, this condition is easier to correct. In addition, modern diagnostic methods help to identify disorders in the central nervous system at any age, which can be a causative factor in the development of mental retardation.
Features of the diagnosis of DMSD
If signs of DMSD appear, you should visit a neurologist. The specialist will examine the child, conduct various tests to assess the availability of certain skills. To establish the cause of developmental delay, a comprehensive examination is prescribed, which includes:
- laboratory analyzes;
- audiogram;
- electroencephalogram and other studies.
Observation of the child also plays an important role. During the diagnosis, it is possible not only to establish the diagnosis but also to find out the cause of its occurrence, which is important for further effective treatment.
How is the treatment carried out?
Therapy is primarily aimed at eliminating the cause of developmental delay. The treatment program is developed on an individual basis. It may include special classes to develop memory, concentration, and attention. Also, work is done with a speech therapist and a defectologist to improve speech. Massage, exercise therapy, art therapy, and other techniques that help activate mental processes can be used as additional methods.
If a child has a psychological trauma, it is imperative to work with a psychologist. Not only treatment is important for recovery from DMSD, but also a friendly attitude towards the child and a favorable family atmosphere.
What is the difference between DMSD and mental retardation?
In case of DMSD, developmental delays occur under the influence of external or internal factors (pathologies), but the child has a high potential for acquiring skills for his/her age. The slowdown affects the child's skills and general condition. However, if timely treatment is started, the child can accelerate the pace of development and catch up with peers. That's why DMSD is not a sentence, but a reversible condition that needs to be corrected.
In case of mental retardation, which has similar symptoms, the situation is quite different. The child has a certain level of mental and other abilities, but even in this case, with regular correctional classes, you can see the dynamics in development. In some cases, it is possible to achieve good results, but this primarily depends on the cause of the problem, an integrated approach, and the regularity of classes.
The Vivere Clinic uses modern methods to diagnose and treat mental retardation, mental retardation, and other disorders. If you notice signs of mental retardation in your child, do not hesitate to contact our specialists for help.
