Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, not only for adults but also for children and adolescents. In many cases, adults who experience mental disorders had symptoms that were present during childhood or adolescence, yet often went unnoticed or unaddressed. Early intervention is vital, as it can significantly enhance the effectiveness of treatment and prevent more severe and persistent issues as a child matures.
Warning Signs:
Identifying whether a child’s behavior is part of normal development or indicative of a deeper issue can be challenging. However, if certain behavioral signs and symptoms persist for weeks or months, and if they disrupt a child’s daily life at home, school, or in interactions with friends, it is crucial to seek professional help.
For young children, it may be advisable to seek evaluation and treatment if they exhibit:
- Frequent tantrums or intense irritability
- Frequent expression of fears or worries
- Complaints of unexplained stomachaches or headaches
- Restlessness and an inability to sit quietly (except during screen time)
- Sleep disturbances, such as excessive or insufficient sleep, nightmares, or daytime sleepiness
- Disinterest in playing with peers or difficulties in making friends
- Academic struggles or a recent decline in grades
- Repetitive actions or compulsions driven by fear of negative outcomes
Older children and adolescents may benefit from evaluation if they display:
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Persistent low energy levels
- Disrupted sleep patterns or excessive daytime sleepiness
- Withdrawal from social interactions and a preference for isolation
- Unhealthy focus on diet, exercise, or body image
- Engagement in self-harming behaviors like cutting or burning
- Use of substances like tobacco, alcohol, or drugs
- Participation in risky or destructive behaviors, either alone or with peers
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- Periods of elevated energy, increased activity, and reduced need for sleep
- Reports of feeling controlled by external forces or experiencing hallucinations
Seeking Help:
It’s essential to understand that mental illnesses are treatable. If you’re a child or teenager facing mental health challenges, consider talking to your parents, school counselor, or healthcare provider. For parents looking for guidance on discussing mental health with their child or adolescent, resources are available through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
If you’re uncertain about where to seek assistance, consult your pediatrician, family doctor, or visit the National Institute of Mental Health’s (NIMH) Help for Mental Illnesses webpage. Additionally, it may be beneficial for children and teenagers to save emergency contact numbers in their cell phones, including a trusted friend or relative, the non-emergency police line, and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for immediate help during critical moments. Early intervention and support can make a significant difference in the well-being of children and adolescents facing mental health challenges.
