When Is It Time to Get My Child Help for Mental Health Issues?
It’s normal for children to have emotional ups and downs, periods of moodiness, trouble with friends, changes in interests, and dips in academic performance. But how can you tell the difference between challenging behaviors and emotions that are a normal part of the growth process and those that could signal something more serious, such as anxiety or depression? If you are looking for children therapist in Plainfield IL, we can help you.
In this article, we’ll be sharing some signs that your child may be struggling with a mental health condition and could benefit from professional help. Let’s take a look at some of the most common behaviors to be aware of.
Changes in eating or sleeping habits
While it’s normal to refuse a meal or stay up way past their bedtime now and then, take notice if your child’s eating or sleeping habits drastically change. Sleeping too much or not at all, as well as eating very little or way more than normal, are red flags that shouldn’t be ignored.
Engaging in self-destructive behaviors
If your child is engaging in self-destructive behaviors, such as skin picking, hair pulling, digging their nails into their skin, or using alcohol or drugs, it’s a sure sign that your child needs mental health support. These behaviors are an outlet that distracts from deeper anger, pain, or resentment.
Talking often about sadness, fear, or worry
While feelings like sadness, fear, and worry are a normal part of everyone’s life, children should not be feeling these emotions regularly or for extended periods of time. If you notice that your child has seemed sad or anxious for a few weeks or longer, or that their emotions are so strong that they’re interfering with their functioning at school, home, or with friends, it’s time to seek help for your child.
Behaving badly
All children act out occasionally, but if your child’s behavior is disrupting your family or getting them in trouble at school, it could be a sign of something deeper going on. Many children express emotions through negative behavior so before grounding them and calling it a day, think about whether seeking mental health support may be a better solution.
Isolating from friends
Spats with friends are bound to happen every once in a while, but if your child is withdrawing from peers for long periods of time and repeatedly declining social invitations, it could be a sign that their mental health is suffering.
Other signs to be mindful of
While the above-mentioned signs tend to be the most common, other behaviors to be aware of include:
Struggling academically for more than a few weeks
Losing interest in things they used to enjoy
Repeatedly checking things out of fear that something bad might happen
Increased physical complaints, such as headaches and stomachaches
Regression, such as bedwetting, tantrums, and clinginess
How to seek help
Generally speaking, you should consider seeking help if your child’s unusual behavior persists for a few weeks or longer. Of course, if your child’s behavior is unsafe or they talk about wanting to hurt themselves or someone else, seek help immediately.
If you suspect your child might be struggling with a mental health issue, take heart. There are plenty of resources out there that can help them. The guidance of a professional counselor or therapist who specializes in issues affecting children can be incredibly beneficial.
If you’re seeking a child therapy in Plainfield, IL, feel free to contact A New Day Family Counseling today by calling (815) 683-8700 or sending us a message. If you’re not in the Plainfield area, simply Google “child therapist near me” to find a good fit for you and your son or daughter.
