NICE consults on draft recommendations for conduct disorders in children and young people

NICE, the healthcare guidance body, is currently developing a clinical guideline on the recognition and management of conduct disorders and antisocial behaviour in children and young people. As part of this process, draft recommendations have been published on the NICE website today (15 August) for public consultation.
Conduct disorders are characterised by repeated and persistent misbehaviour much worse than would normally be expected in a child of that age. This may include stealing, fighting, vandalism and harming people or animals. These disorders are the most common reason for children to be referred to mental health services, with around 5% of all children aged between 5 and 16 years diagnosed with the condition. Conduct disorders also often coexist with other mental health disorders, most commonly attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Prompt diagnosis of social anxiety disorder leads to effective treatment

A prompt diagnosis of social anxiety disorder is crucial in ensuring people access the most clinically and cost effective treatment, according to NICE.
Social anxiety disorder, which has been called 'social phobia' in the past, is one of the most common of the anxiety disorders, affecting around one in ten people.

An integrated approach is fundamental in care of adults with drug use disorders, says NICE

The NHS needs to work closely with social services, local authorities and the voluntary sector if it is to deliver the best chance of recovery for adults with drug use disorders, says NICE in a new quality standard, published today (19 November). The quality standard covers adults (18 years and older) who misuse opioids¹, cannabis, stimulants or other drugs.
Whilst patterns of drug use vary in England and Wales, cannabis is the most commonly used drug, followed by cocaine and then other stimulants such as amphetamines. Drug misuse is more prevalent in areas of social deprivation and presents a wide range of health and social care problems. Many people who misuse drugs have lifestyles that contribute to bad health and injecting drug users are particularly vulnerable to contracting and spreading blood borne viruses and other infections. A long term study of people with an addiction to heroin showed they had a mortality risk 12 times greater than the general population²

Quality Standards Advisory Committee meeting (Committee 1): Monday 1 July 2013

 Anxiety

Quality Standards Advisory Committee meeting (Committee 1): Monday 1 July 2013

 An QSAC: 1 July 2013