Happy children provide endless joy for parents and adults. As much as all adults hope that the children they love can lead carefree lives, the reality is that children face mental health challenges unique to their developmental stage and the time and circumstances in which they grow up. Youth Mental Health Awareness Month is a prime time for parents to educate themselves about the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions in children and adolescents and to learn about the resources and support available to help young people who may be struggling with their mental health.
Common Mental Health Conditions Among Children
Depression, anxiety, and stress are among the most frequently observed mental health issues that affect children. While these issues do not always present consistently and may have erratic or immeasurable impacts on a child’s life, it is worth noting that they can have a significant effect on children’s daily lives. Here are some warning signs to watch for:
- Depression often takes the form of unspecified sadness, fatigue, or general disinterest. Children with depression might struggle to fall or stay asleep and might have an unstable relationship with food that causes them to gain or lose weight beyond what is healthy. Watch for patterns of disengagement, a lack of energy, or shifts in how a child behaves in social environments. Millions of Americans suffer from depression, and a diagnosis is certainly not a life sentence. Children can absolutely emerge from periods of depression and feel emotionally fulfilled and energized again.
- Similarly, anxiety is a common and difficult-to-recognize disorder faced by millions of Americans, including children. There are many signs that a child may be experiencing anxiety, which can vary depending on a child’s unique circumstances. Some common symptoms of anxiety in children include a tendency toward fear or worrying, even about everyday events; avoiding certain places or activities; frequent tantrums or crying fits; and nightmares or difficulty falling asleep.
- Perhaps the most common mental health disturbance of all is stress. Experts typically explain stress as a form of physical, mental, or emotional strain or tension. On its own, stress is not a physical or mental illness – it is a natural way for a person’s body and mind to react to a situation that makes them feel anxious, threatened, or overwhelmed. Stress is something that everyone will experience in some way during their life. The unfortunate truth is that the world is full of stressful situations. Each child has a different threshold and skill set to manage their stress levels and act appropriately under pressure. Learning to cope with stress and finding healthy ways to deal with difficult situations can go a long way in living a healthy and positive life.
Mental health awareness month provides an excellent opportunity to help children and adolescents to learn how to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression and how to maintain good mental health. It is important for parents to talk openly and honestly with their children about mental health and to seek help if they suspect that their child may be struggling with a mental health condition. If a child is closed off to conversations about their mental well-being, it is still possible to observe them and determine if something is bothering them as many symptoms of mental health issues show up in a child’s body. Common signs and symptoms of mental health conditions in young people include changes in mood, behavior, sleep patterns, and school performance, as well as physical symptoms like headaches and stomachaches. Stress, anxiety, and depression can make it hard for children to focus or make decisions. Teens and young adults might turn to nicotine, alcohol, or other drugs for a quick fix when they cannot cope.
When it comes to helping children cope, start by giving the body what it needs. Encourage children to get enough sleep and good nutrition. Be sure they aren’t eating close to bedtime, and encourage children to exercise at least an hour each day. Make time to talk and spend time with the children in your care each day. Help them identify their feelings, and support them in unpacking difficult situations. If a child resists talking about what is bothering them, don’t force it. You’re likely to earn their trust by simply being around them, spending quality time, and creating a welcoming space. Reassure children that it’s OK to feel frustrated, scared, lonely, or anxious and that other people share those feelings.
Beyond parental support, there are many effective treatments available for mental health conditions in young people, including therapy, medication, and support groups. It is important to seek help from a professional if you are worried about your child’s mental health. Mental health practitioners will be able to provide the best path forward. At Maryvale, we approach mental health by considering a child’s whole experience, including their family relationships and cultural background, to build a solid foundation for a healthy life. If your child is in need of professional help, our team of mental health practitioners and community partners is here to support you.
