Understanding PANS & PANDAS: The interplay of the immune system and mental health

Insomnia, out-of-control tantrums, separation anxiety, rage, obsessions, disordered eating, paranoia, motor and vocal tics.
As a therapist or parent, have you come across a child exhibiting any of these behaviours and wondered if there was more to it than psychosocial, developmental or family dynamic issues at play? Have you known a child who used to be a great student but is now barely coping with school work because they can’t focus, and has difficulty processing or remembering what they have learnt? Have you been left frustrated at the poor response to treatment? If so, you may have met or know a child who has paediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS) or paediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with streptococcal disease (PANDAS).

The Neuropsychotherapist-2017