How Do I Know if My Child Needs Help?

By Beth Healey

That's me and my adult son.

Way back when I was a kid, I had just about every symptom of anxiety and depression that there was! However, at the time I was growing up, the subject of mental health was—well—it just wasn’t a popular subject. Things like #anxiety, #depression, #abuse, and #stress in children were rarely identified, much less talked about. And there were so many of us kids who needed help—just like there are today.

A lot of the stressors have changed throughout the years—issues that kids struggle with today differ in a lot of ways from the issues of the seventies. But in today’s world there are numerous resources for #parents. Information is as close as our smartphones. Programs take place in schools and communities that educate and raise awareness. Physicians provide #screenings. Informed parents understand that emotional wounds are as painful as physical ones and require immediate attention.

As a parent myself, I know what it’s like to try and raise a child “the right way.” You don’t want to make mistakes, but no parent is perfect. You strive to keep your child safe and healthy. You want to prepare him/her to live a happy, good life in a very tough world. IT’S NOT EASY.

Although it isn’t easy, you can help yourself and your child by arming yourself with knowledge. If your child has a runny nose and a cough, you know that most likely, he has a cold. But if after a week, his symptoms have not improved and may have even worsened, your gut tells you to get him to the doctor.

But what if your child’s behavior seems abnormal, strange. Perhaps disturbing. Your gut is telling you that something just isn’t right. There are no tell-tale signs like a runny nose, cough, or fever. So HOW DO YOU KNOW if it’s time for your child to see a mental health professional?

Click HERE to review our Facts for Parents. Whether your child is very young, in his/her teens, or is a young adult, you will find useful information to help guide you in recognizing when something is hurting your child ON THE INSIDE.