For Immediate Release

Contact: Rob Grant, Communications Director
202.966.7300, Ext. 119
rgrant@aacap.org

Anna Eisenberg, Communications Coordinator
202.966.7300, Ext. 154
aeisenberg@aacap.org

Washington, D.C., April 28, 2010 - The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry is proud to announce its new practice parameter focusing on diagnosing and treating Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in children and adolescents.

"Child abuse, violence, war and other forms of trauma seriously impact children's development in multiple domains. Many such children develop PTSD, a serious mental illness associated with long term negative outcomes," states author Judith A. Cohen, M.D.

The parameter specifically outlines the importance of early detection of PTSD, gathering information from parents and children, and the assessment and treatment of comorbid disorders.

"This updated practice parameter encourages a comprehensive approach to assessing and treating children and adolescents with trauma symptoms. Ongoing research is needed to optimally delineate these symptoms and their optimal treatment across the developmental spectrum," Cohen said.

The full practice parameter is featured in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, April 2010 - Volume 49 - Number 4, pages 414-430.

To discuss this practice parameter, please contact Anna Eisenberg, Communications Coordinator, at 202.966.7300, ext. 154 or aeisenberg@aacap.org.

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Representing over 8,000 child and adolescent psychiatrists nationwide, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) is the leading authority on children's mental health.

AACAP Members actively research, diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders affecting children, adolescents and their families. For more information please visit www.aacap.org.