Identifying Indicators Suggesting Professional Counseling May Be Beneficial for Your Child
In the complex world of childhood, it's not uncommon for children to face challenges that may extend beyond the playground or the classroom. If a child is struggling in multiple areas of their life, such as at home, school, or in extracurricular activities, it could be a sign that they need some extra attention.
Pediatricians can play a vital role in helping parents differentiate what is and isn't normal, offering reassurance, and guiding them towards professional help when necessary. Dr. Eastman, a psychologist, emphasises the importance of validating a child's experience, as it can make them more receptive to talking about their challenges.
Here are ten indicators that it might be time for a child to see a therapist:
- Persistent sadness, irritability, or anxiety lasting over two weeks, indicating possible deeper emotional concerns.
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities the child once enjoyed, showing social isolation or loss of interest.
- Behavioral problems such as increased aggression, defiance, temper tantrums, or inability to concentrate at school.
- Changes in basic habits like sleep, eating, or frequent unexplained physical complaints (headaches, stomachaches) without medical cause, which may signal emotional distress.
- Drop in school performance or loss of interest in school activities, reflecting underlying learning or emotional challenges.
- Expressions of self-harm, hopelessness, or suicidal thoughts/plans require immediate professional intervention.
- Severe mood swings, intense worries or fears, repeated substance use, or extreme difficulty controlling behavior.
- If a child experiences major life stressors such as parental divorce, loss of a loved one, trauma, bullying, or significant life changes, these increase the risk for mental health issues.
If parents notice one or more of these signs persisting, they are encouraged to seek professional evaluation and support from therapists, psychologists, school counselors, or healthcare providers who specialize in children's mental health. Early intervention can prevent long-term problems and promote healthier development.
Parents should not be afraid to broach the topic of therapy with their child's doctor. If necessary, a pediatrician can refer you to a counselor who is a good match for your child. Seeking help can help a child and the parent learn new coping skills and strategies for handling problems.
If a child is thinking or talking about suicide, respond in a calm, supportive way. If a child feels bad about themselves, less confident, or less effective than they used to, it's worth investigating. Therapy can be beneficial for children even if their issues are not severe.
Getting mental health care for a child can involve learning about time management and new skills. Excessive worry that affects a child's physical health or ability to get things done might require help learning new strategies. If a child becomes withdrawn, stops interacting with family and friends, or stops expressing interest in activities they used to enjoy, it's important to understand why.
Unusually defiant or aggressive behavior, bullying, fighting, or threatening others could be signs of a more serious issue. Repetitive, self-destructive behaviors like hair-pulling or skin-picking could be a sign of anxiety or distress. Significant changes in a child's sleep habits, hygiene, or appetite might signal mental health conditions.
It's essential to remember that mental health treatment does not always mean medication or hospitalization. Virtual mental health support may be an option, depending on where you live. Outside the U.S., visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention website for local resources.
If you're not sure what to think, consider calling a 24/7 hotline. Parents might be surprised by their children's willingness to seek extra help. Distressing comments like "I wish I weren't here" or "Nobody would care if I ran away" should be taken seriously.
In the United States, call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline if your child is in immediate danger. If you believe your child is in immediate danger, call emergency services or take them to the emergency room. Seeking help can make life easier and happier for a child and you.
Science can provide valuable insights into the complexities of child mental health, informing parenting strategies and health-and-wellness interventions. Parents, in collaboration with pediatricians, school counselors, and therapists who specialize in mental health, can implement evidence-based solutions to support a child's overall health and well-being.
Furthermore, incorporating mental health and wellness routines into family life, such as open dialogue about feelings, stress management techniques, and self-care practices, can foster a healthier environment for child development. This mindful approach to parenting can contribute to improved mental health outcomes for both the child and the family as a whole.
