Anxiety

Selective mutism is a severe childhood anxiety disorder where a child is ‘mute' (unable to speak) in certain situations such as school. It is ‘selective', because the mutism usually doesn't occur in all situations. In situations where the child feels relaxed, like at home or with close friends and family, the child may be able to speak normally.

Separation anxiety is a type of anxiety where people feel unsafe when separated from person(s) (typically parents or caregivers) or place(s) (typically their home) that help them feel safe. They feel unsafe or not capable of managing when separated from their safe person(s) or place(s). 

Social anxiety disorder (aka social phobia) is a condition where individuals have extreme shyness, to the point where it causes problems in a person's life. While some degree of shyness is normal, individuals with social anxiety have such extreme shyness that it actually causes problems in a person's social life, relationships, school or work. The good news is that there are many specific strategies as well as therapy that can help a person improve their social anxiety. 

Trichotillomania is a condition where individuals feel an irresistible urge to pull their hair. Fortunately, effective treatment exists. These may involve cognitive behaviour therapy and/or medications. Individuals should seek out a family physician or psychologist for help with this condition.