RECOGNIZING THE NEED FOR ASSISTANCE
Bruce Eckel, MD - Director, North Texas International Adoption Clinic

RAD, ADHD, SID, PTSD, OCD, ODD, FAS. This sounds like vegetable soup, but all of these are abbreviations for disorders that are commonly seen in the adoption world. International adoption specialists are often called upon to help in the decision for referrals, medical or psychological interventions.

While it is a fact that all internationally adopted children are “at risk” for problems, not all need medications or extensive intervention. Neglect, malnutrition, abuse, or maternal alcohol use are just a few of the risk factors raising the suspicion for problems.

A thorough medical evaluation done as soon as possible after arrival home can pick up on syndromes or several of the neurological problems. Standards for speech and other developmental milestones are widely established and can be assessed by your physician or therapists such as with ECI (early childhood intervention).

Behavioral issues are often let go too far and should be addressed as soon as possible if they are interfering with family, school or social functioning. Some are often transient such as sleep or eating disturbances while others such as post traumatic stress or reactive attachment disorder may be life long.

Many resources are available so aggressively seek out answers and never give up.

Bruce Eckel, MD is a board certified pediatrician who has been in private practice since 1980. He also serves as the Director of the North Texas International Adoption Clinic. He is married with four children, the youngest two were adopted from China and have special needs. Dr Eckel has visited many orphanages in China and Russia and has evaluated children and their records from many countries all over the world. He has an avid interest and participates in international mission trips.