Serious Emotional Disorder (SED)

Serious Emotional Disturbance (SED) refers to a condition in which a child or adolescent is diagnosed with a recognized mental illness, as outlined in the latest Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Additionally, they must have experienced functional impairments caused by emotional disturbances consistently or intermittently over the past 12 months.

Behavioral Signs of SED include:

• Aggressive or violent behavior directed at themselves, others, or objects
• Impulsivity and difficulty regulating emotions or actions
• Withdrawal from social interactions and activities once enjoyed
• Significant changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or excessive sleep
• Trouble focusing, learning, or completing everyday tasks
• Engaging in risky behaviors or acts of self-harm