Mental Health Warning Signs

 Children and adolescents display troubling behavior at times. Sometimes the behavior is part of a child’s healthy development, but if it starts to occur more frequently or increases in severity, it may be cause for concern. It’s good for parents and other adults who work with children and adolescents to be able to tell the difference. If there is a developing mental health problem or emotional stressor, children do not always tell adults. They may fear what their parents or others will think, maybe they think nothing can be done, or they believe that the problem could get worse if they tell. Listed below are a few warning signs to look out for:
• The child suddenly does not want to go to school or a certain place (i.e. a person’s house or an after-school program).
• Physical complaints (i.e. stomachaches or headaches).
• Excessive worrying.
• Decline in grades/school performance.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Their personality seems to change (i.e. they were previously very outgoing and goofy but then begin acting
quiet and shy).
• Disturbances in sleep (trouble falling asleep or sleeping too much).
• Frequent nightmares.
• Their eating habits change (eating too much or too little).
• You notice a weight gain or loss.
• Persistent anger, defiance, or acting out behavior.
• The child does not want to separate from the parent or guardian.
• Crying or withdrawing.
• They are overly hard on themselves or talk badly about themselves.
• Self-harming behaviors.
• Abuse of drugs and/or alcohol.
When the child or adolescent does open up, make sure to listen actively. Nod your head, repeat back what they are saying, and assure them that you believe them. Validate their feelings and let them know that whatever is going on (i.e. bullying, sexual abuse, depression, etc.) is not their fault. Let them know that they are not alone and you will help them through this hard time. When an emotional or behavioral problem is left untreated it can have long-term negative effects on their schooling, relationships, and mental health. You can seek help from a school counselor or mental health professional. If you believe the child’s safety is in danger (e.g. they are harming themselves or others, want to harm themselves or others, or report abuse) call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
If you would like more information about how to address anxiety or depression in children, please contact the offices of Dynamic Interventions at 661-257-1254 or at www.dynamicinterventions.com.