How Do I Know if My Child Has Mental Health Issues?

By Lainey La Shay

How do you know if your child has mental health issues? Look for lasting changes in mood, behavior, or school performance that go beyond normal ups and downs.

As a parent, you have the unique ability to recognize changes in your child’s behavior, emotions, and daily routines before anyone else. A child who was once cheerful, focused, and social may suddenly withdraw, struggle in school, or show signs of irritability and restlessness. While every child has ups and downs, ongoing shifts that disrupt their well-being can point to something more than “just a phase.”

Over the last several weeks, Corrie had started to wonder if her daughter, Mika, was experiencing some mental health issues. The fifth-grader was usually super social, upbeat, and excelled in school. Lately, however, she had become withdrawn and irritable, was always restless, and her grades had plummeted. At first, Corrie thought Mika was feeling down because one of her best friends had moved away. But this all seemed to be more than sadness. Corrie knew that she needed to find out what was happening with her daughter sooner rather than later so that she could provide the help Mika needed.

What are mental health issues?

The CDC describes mental health issues and disorders in children as “serious changes in the way children typically learn, behave, or handle their emotions, causing distress and problems getting through the day.”

The mental health disorders wit h which children are most commonly diagnosed are ADHD, anxiety, behavioral issues, and depression. It is estimated that 1 in 7 children have a mental health issue.

Approximately half of all mental health issues are diagnosed before the age of fourteen, and some can occur together. However, according to a study done by the CDC, an average of sixty percent of children with mental health issues receive help for them.

Untreated mental health issues can have a serious impact on a child’s well-being, lasting into adulthood. These issues can affect everything from their grades to relationships to their future careers. Children with mental health issues are more likely not to receive their high school diploma, have substance abuse issues, or become incarcerated. In extreme cases, these issues can lead to self-harm or harm to others. It is critical to maintain awareness of a child’s mental health and to be alert for changes and signs that indicate there may be an issue.

What does the Bible say about mental health issues?

The Bible contains many stories of people who struggled with mental health issues at some point in their lives. However, God proves time and again that He cares for them, body, mind, and spirit. For example, in 1 Kings 19, the prophet Elijah found himself in the wilderness, exhausted and fleeing for his life. Elijah reaches a point where he sits under a tree and asks to die.

However, God sent an angel to provide Elijah with food and water and instructed him to rest.

God cares about our whole selves and encourages us to share our questions, with Him. Peter instructs, “Cast all your anxieties on Him because he cares for you” (1 Peter5:7). God promises never to leave us nor forsake us (Joshua 1:5), even in our most difficult battles, fears, and emotions. When we find our children facing mental health issues, it is essential to remember that God cares about what we are facing and that He will provide for us. Sometimes, however, that provision doesn’t come in the form of healing. Instead, it often comes from skilled therapists, mental health professionals, healthcare providers, medication access, and support from friends, family, schools, and churches. He also gave your child you as a parent to help them through this, which is an enormous blessing.

Remember that it is courageous to reach out for help when your child is showing signs of having a mental health issue. Obtaining the help they need is an act of steadfast love from you as their parent.

What are the signs of mental health issues in children?

jIt’s important to be aware that children can have many of the same mental health issues as adults. However, the signs of mental health issues in kids are often different, and some mental health issues develop only during childhood

Here is a list of common signs and symptoms that you can use to determine if your child might have mental health issues.

Sadness that lasts for more than two weeks.
Changes in social behavior, including avoidance of others.
No interest in making or spending time with friends.
Significant changes in mood, behavior, and personality.
Irritability, depression, moodiness, and emotional outbursts.
Inability to concentrate
Skipping school, poor grades (despite making an effort), or a decline in academic performance
Changes in eating habits.
Weight loss.
Nightmares and insomnia.
Worry, fear, or anxiety
Fidgeting or hyperactivity
Frequent headaches or stomachaches
Dangerous, risky, or reckless behaviors.
Frequent aggression, disobedience, and temper tantrums
Hurting or talking about hurting themselves.
Giving away their belongings.

Talking about death or suicide. (Remember: If your child is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. In life-threatening situations, call 911.)

If you notice these signs of mental illness in your child, it is vital that you take steps to determine whether there is a mental health issue and what the treatment should be. Don’t assume that they’re just going through a phase or that they’ll outgrow it. Remember, it is better to err on theside of caution and have a healthcare professional assess your child. A professional can best determine if there are mental health issues, learning disabilities, developmental delays, or if the behavior is linked to another cause.

Mental health issues become more difficult to treat the longer they remain unaddressed and will usually worsen over time. Identifying mental health issues early can provide a better outcome and help your child thrive.

What to do if you notice signs of mental health issues in your child.

If your child is showing signs of a possible mental health issue, ask their teacher, daycare provider, or close friends about their behavior. Keep a list of the concerning behaviors. Next, schedule an appointment with your child’s healthcare provider and share what you have learned about your child’s behavior.

Your healthcare provider may refer you to a mental health professional, or you can ask for a referral. The National Institute of Mental Health provides excellent resources on choosing a provider and accessing care. The healthcare or mental health provider will do a thorough evaluation of your child and their mental health. This evaluation usually includes:

An interview with the parent to discuss the child’s personality, behavior, and concerns. Gathering information on behavior and academic performance from the school. Time spent interacting with the child, listening to answers, and observing their behaviors.

A medical exam to rule out other health conditions.

Next, have a conversation with your child. Let them know that you care about them, that you’ve noticed the change in their behavior, and that you want to help. Listen to them and how they feel, and reassure them that they are loved and beautifully created in God’s image.

What if my child is diagnosed with a mental health issue?

If your child is diagnosed with a mental health issue, pause for a moment and take a breath. It can be difficult news to hear, and you may feel overwhelmed. Remember, you are not alone, and there are amazing people and organizations who can support you and your family as you navigate treatment for the issues.

Treatment options

Depending on the issue and severity, your healthcare or mental health provider may recommend several treatment options for your child. Some of the treatments may include psychotherapy—also known as talk therapy—where the parents are involved in the treatment, and the child is taught to practice skills at home and school. Medications may also be recommended to treat the issue and are often used in combination with psychotherapy.

Family Support Family counseling may help both parents and siblings understand what is happening. Mental health issues can impact family relationships, so this can be an essential step toward keeping those relationships thriving. There are also group sessions available where parents can meet and talk with other parents and learn new strategies to help their child.

School support

Your child’s school may be an excellent place to find support. Many schools provide accommodations for children with mental health issues to help them succeed in school. Ask the school if they have an IEP or 504 plan and if those accommodations are appropriate for your child.

Remember that you are not alone and that God has provided incredible healthcare professionals to help you assess the state of your child’s mental health. Many resources are available to answer questions and help you navigate this part of your child’s life.

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