Serious Emotional Disorder (SED)

Serious emotional disturbance (SED) means a child or adolescent has a designated mental illness diagnosis according to the most current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) AND has experienced functional limitations due to emotional disturbance over the past 12 months on a continuous or intermittent basis.

Behavioral Signs of SED:

• Aggression or violent behavior towards themselves, others, or objects
• Impulsivity and difficulty controlling their emotions or actions
• Withdrawal from social interactions and activities they previously enjoyed
• Drastic changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or excessive sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating, learning, or completing tasks
• Engaging in risky behaviors or self-harm