While parents generally want the best for their children, it’s unfortunate to note that one’s young girl or boy may at some point experience substantive mental challenges. Whether the issue is depression, a chemical imbalance in the brain, or some other mental or emotional problem, it’s important for you to recognize signs which indicate that something may be wrong. Here are four signs that your child may be in need of professional mental health services.
1. Unexplained Weight Loss
As noted by the Mayo Clinic, unexplained weight loss can be an indication that a child is having mental problems. If you note that your child is experiencing a sudden loss of appetite or using laxatives, these behaviors may indicate the presence of an eating disorder or drug abuse.
Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder that impacts both men and women of all ages, characterized by extreme dieting that causes a host of issues. Approximately 35% of those who begin a diet will take it to unhealthy levels, and up to 25% of those people will develop an eating disorder.
2. Substance Abuse
If you find that your child has begun abusing drugs, know that this could be an indication of a mental disorder. In fact, some children begin abusing drugs in order to cope with difficult life experiences that have led to a mental imbalance. Unfortunately, illegal drugs can exacerbate the condition, and this is why drug abuse counselors oftentimes find that drug addiction and mental disorders are co-occurring conditions.
3. Self-Harm
One key sign that your child may be struggling to maintain her or his mental equilibrium is acts of self-harm. Examples would include cutting one’s flesh with a knife or razor. Another example would be throwing one’s body against a wall. These behaviors oftentimes indicate that a child feels a lack of control over her or his life or is in a period of self-loathing. Therapy services, such as meeting with a counselor, can help children who are caught in the debilitating cycle of self-harm.
4. Behavioral Changes
Significant, long-lasting changes in behavior can be a sign that your child is struggling with a mental disorder. For example, if you note that a child who is normally introverted and withdrawn suddenly begins acting in an aggressive or violent manner, the shift in behavior may result from the onset of a mental condition. Children who were formally emotionally stable and suddenly experience profound, ongoing mood changes are also likely to be grappling with mental instability.
Although most parents hope that their children will evolve into happy, healthy adults, it is possible for one’s daughter or son to experience a substantive mental challenge at some point. To ensure that you can be part of the solution if this situation arises, it’s important to know the warning signs which indicate that your child may need mental health services. You can use the information outlined in this quick reference guide for this purpose.
Anica is a professional content and copywriter who graduated from the University of San Francisco. She loves dogs, the ocean, and anything outdoor-related. She was raised in a big family, so she’s used to putting things to a vote. Also, cartwheels are her specialty. You can connect with Anica here. If you are looking for a counselor in South Dakota, Anica suggests you check out the services of Encompass Mental Health.
