Mental health issues affect people of all ages, and they may impact children more than you might think. According to Johns Hopkins University, a study completed between 2016 and 2019 showed that “21.8% of U.S. children ages 3 to 17 have one or more of the common mental, emotional and behavioral health conditions assessed.” According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), “ADHD, anxiety, behavioral problems and depression are the most commonly diagnosed.” Even more concerning is that these disorders are compounding, and children often experience two or more disorders together. Knowing the prevention methods, signs and ways of treating mental health issues should they arise are extremely important tools. As a parent, you can use these to help your kids succeed and conquer the complicated realm of mental health.
It Can Begin Early
Children ages 0 to 3 are experiencing their emotional formative years. They learn and regulating their emotions based on the actions and emotions of their primary caregivers, according to Mayo Clinic. When infants’ needs are met by their caregivers, they “learn that they can rely on that person, and the social bond builds.” Mayo Clinic notes that there are certain issues that can inhibit this vital social bond. These include “mental illnesses in the caregiver, such as depression and anxiety, a caregiver’s own history of neglect and abuse, single parenthood without social support, temperament mismatches between infant and caregiver, financial stress, relationship conflict between caregivers and alcohol or drug abuse in the caregiver.”
Babies mimic their caregiver’s behavior. They won’t learn to smile or laugh if they don’t see their caregivers exhibiting these emotions. Without these crucial moments of growth, there may be little to no foundation for future social and emotional well-being. Recognizing their needs and working to provide a nurturing environment for your child is extremely important. If you are struggling, professional assistance is available. Newborn behavior observation can help you understand how best to understand and respond to your child’s needs, according to Mayo Clinic.
But It Doesn’t Stop There
In children and teens, a myriad of influences can affect mental health. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), social isolation, school or family issues and problems within their communities can be detrimental to a child’s mental health. These factors, if not addressed, can lead to mental health disorders, which only worsen if they too are not addressed.
By the time they are in their teens and young adulthood, mental disorders that arose in childhood can have a serious impact on not only the individual’s well-being, but also the well-being of our “health, education, labor and criminal justice systems,” according to APA. Communicating with your child about their mental health, struggles and daily life is important. This can help you identify when your child needs assistance, which can prevent mental disorders from getting worse. If you believe your child might be suffering from a mental disorder, speak with your child’s pediatrician.
Signs of Mental Health Issues
Infants (Mayo Clinic)
- Poor sleep patterns
- Difficulties with feeding
- Persistent or unremitting crying
- Restlessness
- Gastric disturbance
- Anxiety and tension
- Distress and fear
- Lack of weight gain or failure to thrive
- Failure to meet expected developmental milestones
Children and Teens (Mental Health America)
- Problems with concentration, memory, or ability to think clearly
- Changes in appetite
- Feeling sad, empty, hopeless, or worthless
- Loss of interest in things that theyused to enjoy
- Excessive worry
- Irritability or restlessness
- Changes in sleep
- Angry outbursts
- Not wanting to be around people or take part in activities
- Hearing or seeing things that other people don’t
- Extreme panic
- Onset of new behaviors or rituals that are repeated
- Mood swings or frequent shifts in energy
- Changes in how they dress – if your child is wearing long pants and sleeves in hot weather, or hats all of a sudden, they could be hiding signs of self-injury like cutting or hair pulling
How to Help Your Children Cope with Mental Health Issues
According to Harvard Health, there are several methods to help children and teens deal with mental health issues and stressors. Healthy and safe communication, downtime, healthy use of devices, enough sleep and exercise and maintaining communication with teachers, coaches and other adults can help your child to regulate their social and emotional needs. It’s also important to remember that your children aren’t perfect. While healthy expectations for your children are good, it’s important for your kids to know that you love them even if they don’t succeed. Creating a “judgement-free safe haven” in your home allows your children to know that despite any expectations or consequences for not meeting them, they are not defined by their mistakes and can always communicate with you how they are feeling, no matter the circumstances.