Many children who have a serious illness such as a brain tumour learn to adjust to their situation over time and with support. Similar to adults, children can show variability in how they cope. Younger children often focus on their immediate suffering, while older children and teenagers may have a broader view of the impact of illness.
If your child is having a bad day, it can be difficult to tell if changes in your child's behaviour are due to the tumour, the treatment, or an emotional response to both. Sadness, anger, fussiness, acting out, tantrums, or withdrawing can all be normal behaviours for children. Some children may show more serious behaviours, such as low mood, anxiety, sleep difficulties, relationship difficulties, school challenges, or refusing to have treatments. More serious behaviour changes need to be addressed quickly. Talk to your treatment team if you are concerned.
What causes behaviour changes during brain tumour treatment?
There are several possible causes to the behaviour changes you may see. Some of these include:
- changes in routine
- fatigue, which can lead to irritability
- stress caused by treatment and related changes
- changes in family dynamics
- impact of medications, such as steroids (dexamethasone)
- damage to the parts of the brain that play a role in controlling emotions, behaviour, language, or understanding social situations
- undiagnosed endocrine problems, such as low thyroid hormone levels, which can cause low mood
What can you do about changes in behaviour?
Talk to your child’s nurse, social worker, or child life specialist if you are concerned about your child's behaviour. They may be able to determine strategies to help you. There are several approaches you can implement at home to address behaviours.
- Stick to a routine when you can. Although life has become unpredictable, keeping to routines as much as possible will help because children benefit from structure. As your child's lifestyle changes, be open to establishing new routines.
- Develop a strategy to deal with concerning behaviours. For example, find alternative ways for your child to express their feelings or behaviours (for example, “When you get angry, I would like you to...”). Take care not to place judgement on a child’s behaviors as this is often an extension of their feelings, which they may be struggling to express.
- Recognize adaptive behaviours when you see them.
- Respond to concerning behaviours with consequences that are suitable for your child’s age or development. Responses should be quick, consistent, and clear.