Recognizing Mental Health Issues in Your Child
Depression, anxiety and other mental health issues can affect anyone – including children. In fact, it’s estimated that one in five children struggle with mental health, but only one-third receive the treatment they need.
Many adults don’t associate mental health challenges with children. But our experts reveal that some children will face anxiety, depression and other issues. It’s important for parents to be able to recognize these signs and offer the support their children need.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES IN CHILDREN
The most common mental disorders in children include:
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Anxiety
- Behavioral disorders
- Depression
Symptoms and warning signs of these can vary greatly based on the condition and child. Our experts recommend talking with your child’s pediatrician if something seems out of the norm for your child.
Our experts encourage parents to trust their gut. You know your child best, and if they are demonstrating troubling behavior for more than a few days or weeks and just doesn’t seem like themself, call your pediatrician. Your child’s doctor can offer guidance on whether it’s just a phase or if your child needs more support to deal with whatever they are facing.
Other symptoms of mental illness in children include:
- Decline in school performance
- Change in friendships
- Loss of interest in favorite activities
- Constant worry or anxiety
- Frequent nightmares
- Sadness or irritability
- Frequent temper tantrums
A mental health condition is an illness. Our experts reveal that it is a result of the chemicals in the brain not working or responding as they usually do. And just as you would seek treatment for an ear ache or illness in your child, you also shouldn’t hesitate to seek treatment for a mental health illness.
GET YOUR CHILD THE HELP, SUPPORT NEEDED
There are many effective treatment options for mental health conditions in children, and there’s no shame in getting the help and support your child needs, suggests our experts. A trained mental health provider will work closely with your child to create a treatment plan that’s right for your child.
Treatment may include:
- Talk therapy
- Cognitive behavior therapy
- Developing coping skills
- Medication
BUILD OPEN, HONEST COMMUNICATION
A loving, supportive home can go a long way in encouraging your child’s mental health – whether or not they are facing a diagnosed condition.
Our experts encourage parents to keep the lines of communication open with their child. As children grow they are more open to friends than parents, but when you find time to connect and talk with your child, they will be more likely to share their concerns and worries with you – giving you the opportunity to offer the support they need.
Our experts also encourage parents to build relationships with the adults and friends your children are close to – whether it’s a coach, teacher or sibling – and get a well-rounded picture of how your child is doing.
MENTAL HEALTH IS A STRENGTH, NOT A WEAKNESS
Too often, a mental health issue is seen as a weakness. But, when parents and children can recognize they need help – and seek that help out – it’s truly a sign of strength.
Don’t be afraid to reach out to a therapist or psychiatrist if that’s something your child needs – or something you need as a parent. It can make a difference in your children’s mental and physical health.
