Mental health issues do not discriminate – they can affect anyone at any age. Observing Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s explore the critical topic of young people’s mental health, exploring how issues that begin in early childhood can escalate if not addressed promptly.
Recognizing the Spectrum of Child and Teen Mental Health Issues
Approximately 20 million U.S. children between the ages of 3 and 17 have mental, emotional, behavioral, or developmental disorders like anxiety, depression, and ADHD. These difficulties may prevent them from reaching specific developmental milestones, making friends easily, or advancing in school alongside their peers.
One of the most significant obstacles for parents is that many children living with mental health disorders do not speak up for themselves. If they can’t remember ever feeling differently, they might not realize their experiences are unusual and even possibly harmful. This normalization makes it even more crucial for parents, teachers, and other caregivers to be vigilant and knowledgeable about the signs of mental distress.
Warning Signs of Children’s Mental Health Issues
Being aware of the following red flags can help you identify potential mental health issues in children:
- Changes in sleeping or eating patterns
- Trouble concentrating
- Withdrawing from formerly enjoyable activities
- Excessive worry about everyday situations
- Preferring to spend time alone
- Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
- Noticeable irritability and mood swings
- Physical symptoms like headaches or muscle tension without clear causes
- Nausea or vomiting not linked to a physical illness
- Difficulties in forming or maintaining friendships
- High levels of self-consciousness and fear of embarrassment
- Uncharacteristic secrecy or solitude
The Thin Line Between Typical Growing Pains and Mental Health Concerns
Though distinguishing between normal developmental behaviors and signs of mental health issues can be challenging, significant conditions like anxiety and depression do not resolve on their own. Ignoring potential warning signs out of denial or shame can exacerbate the problem, leading to more severe consequences in the future.
Consult with your pediatrician if you notice any of the above symptoms in your child. A doctor can perform diagnostic screenings to rule out other health conditions with similar symptoms as mental illnesses. They can also recommend a qualified therapist.
A doctor can conduct or recommend comprehensive diagnostic screenings to differentiate the symptoms of mental health conditions from those of other physical health issues. Following this, obtaining a referral to a licensed therapist or psychologist is crucial.
How Project Play Therapy Can Help
At Project Play Therapy, we understand the complexities of children’s mental health. We partner with schools throughout Middle Tennessee to provide accessible psychological support and therapy. Our caring team equips children with the resources they need to thrive and achieve their full potential.
Protecting children’s mental health is about awareness, advocacy, and taking actionable steps to ensure our youngest generation’s well-being. Contact us today to build a brighter future for your child.