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[vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_ctation ctaction_background=”#B095D6″ ctaction_background_hover=”#B095D6″]Kids today face unique pressures and challenges. While many kids experience normal levels of stress, there is a growing number of kids with anxiety and other mental health issues. Read on to know what to look for and how to help.[/ultimate_ctation][/vc_column][/vc_row]
In this blog post, we’ll touch upon some of the most common kids’ mental health conditions so you can better understand what your child may be dealing with and find them the support they need.
Here are common signs to look for and resources to help.
1. Stress
Unlike more serious kids’ mental health conditions, stress is a normal reaction to challenges in young people’s lives. Stress can help children push themselves and build resilience in certain situations, but it can also become chronic if kids don’t get a break from stressors or don’t learn proper coping skills. Increased irritability, trouble sleeping and eating, becoming withdrawn, and emotional changes such as crying, complaining, or appearing fearful more often can all be signs of stress in kids. To help children manage stress, it’s important to model and encourage proper sleeping, eating, and exercise habits. Taking time to check in about what’s going on in kids’ lives and making time for fun are also helpful ways to battle stress in kids. If you suspect chronic stress in children or find your child’s stress too difficult to manage, a licensed mental health professional can help your family develop stress management strategies.
2. Anxiety
Unlike stress, anxiety disorders in kids are more serious conditions. These affect how kids think and feel about themselves and the world which can interfere with their ability to function regularly. While fear and worry are a normal part of living, kids who experience persistent or extreme fears and worries may be suffering from anxiety. If worry or fear begin to interfere with your child’s school performance, home life, or recreational activities, it may be time to seek professional assistance in managing your child’s anxiety. Other symptoms of anxiety include trouble sleeping, irritability, headaches, or stomachaches. A common anxiety disorder among children is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder which involves obsessive thoughts and mental or physical compulsions. If you suspect your child is suffering from OCD, specialized help can be found at IOCDF.org
3. ADHD
ADHD in children revolves around trouble paying attention, controlling impulses, and being very active. While all children may struggle with such things from time to time, signs that a child may have ADHD include frequent daydreaming, forgetfulness, fidgeting, careless mistakes, and difficulty getting along with others. ADHD in kids may result in inattentive behaviors like not being able to follow conversations or hyperactive-impulsive behaviors like not being able to sit still. Children also may demonstrate a mix of both kinds of behaviors. More information about ADHD and support can be found at CHADD.org
4. Depression
There is a difference between feeling sad and being depressed, but lingering sadness and hopelessness may be a sign of depression in kids. If your child becomes disinterested in things they used to enjoy along with experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or irritability, these are signs that may indicate your child is depressed. Changes in eating, sleep, and energy can also be symptoms along with kids struggling to pay attention in school or at home. Another sign could be a child engaging in self-destructive behaviors. Depression is a serious mental health condition in kids, so look for the signs and know when to seek help. For more information on depression in kids and support, visit ADAA.org
Keep in mind that every child’s experience will be unique. Above all, pay attention to changes in a child’s behavior, mood, or emotions.
If you find a reason for concern, tell your child what you noticed and let them know you are there to help. Listen and try to understand what they are feeling. Then let them know nothing is wrong with them as a person and support can be found. To learn more about mental illness among youth, check out the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
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