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What Can We Do to Promote Mental Health Among Individuals With Developmental Coordination Disorder?

  • Comorbidities (D Dewey, Section Editor)
  • Published:
Current Developmental Disorders Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of the Review

It is well-documented that individuals with DCD experience mental health problems, in both psychosocial and psychiatric domains. In this review, we propose a series of diverse options to improve mental health among individuals with DCD.

Recent Findings

Despite recognition of mental health problems in DCD, relatively little work has been done to develop effective interventions. There is an urgent need for action in this matter. We present and discuss options based on a societal perspective (awareness and understanding), parental perspective (access to services and resources), and child perspective (participation).

Summary

In order to improve mental health, interventions must take into account multiple levels in a complex framework that includes community, family, and the individual. While more research on intervention effectiveness is necessary, researchers, practitioners, and community advocates can use existing initiatives as a starting point to address the urgent need for improving mental health in DCD.

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Acknowledgements

Haylie Miller is funded by National Institutes of Health (US) (K01-MH107774.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Kinesiology, University of Texas at Arlington, 500 W Nedderman Dr, Arlington, TX, 76019, USA

    Priscila Tamplain

  2. Department of Physical Therapy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX, 76109, USA

    Haylie L. Miller

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  1. Priscila Tamplain
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Correspondence to Priscila Tamplain.

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Tamplain, P., Miller, H.L. What Can We Do to Promote Mental Health Among Individuals With Developmental Coordination Disorder?. Curr Dev Disord Rep 8, 24–31 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40474-020-00209-7

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