Signs & Symptoms Of Mental Health Issues In Children

It’s a difficult thing to talk about, but children are almost as likely to suffer from mental health problems as adults. It’s estimated that around 1 in 5 kids currently have a mental illness, which negatively impacts their every life.

However, even though children are suffering, they’re much less likely to receive mental health treatment than adults. This is often because adults feel that the symptoms of mental health problems in children will simply be outgrown as the child ages. This is not only untrue but can cause the mental health problems to worsen as puberty approaches.

Knowing The Signs Of Childhood Mental Illness

Its’ important for anyone who has children or works closely with them, to know the symptoms of childhood mental illness. Below are a few of the signs to look out for:

Preschool through early elementary school

• Hyperactivity on an extreme level
• Purposeful aggression or destruction
• Trouble sleeping (nightmares, excessive sleep, etc.)
• Suffering from worries, anxiety, and fear
• Reported behavior issues in school or daycare
• Parental separation anxiety (this is common, but if it continues for months, there may be an issue)

Grade school

• Hyperactivity on an extreme level
• Suffering from worries, anxiety, and fear
• Sudden changes in weight or sleeping habits
• Swift decline in grades or GPA
• Loss of interest in friends and favorite activities
• Visible, prolonged, sadness

Teenagers

• Setting fires
• Destruction of property
• Running away, or threats to run away
• Withdrawal from friends or family
• Swift decline in grades or GPA
• Visible, prolonged, sadness
• Threats or attempts to harm self or others

If your child is exhibiting any combination of the above symptoms, it’s important to take him or her to a pediatrician or a counselor immediately. It’s also vital that you participate in your child’s treatment as it may become necessary to change or include medications, therapy, and school settings.

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