Children’s Mental Health Matters

As students in our community have settled into their back-to-school routine, we want to remind you that children and teenagers also face mental health challenges. We need to recognize and treat the mental health of our youth just like we do their physical health.

If there is a concern that a child you know may be experiencing a mental health issue, it’s important to seek help from a doctor or mental health professional. Treating mental health concerns early can help prevent them from developing into a more serious conditions in the future.

There are situations and behavioral issues that can signal that something serious might be happening with a child’s mental health. Here are a few common warning signs:

Know the Signs:

• Feels very sad, hopeless, or irritable
• Feels overly anxious or worried
• Is scared and fearful; has frequent nightmares
• Is excessively angry
• Uses alcohol or drugs
• Avoids people; wants to be alone all of the time
• Hears voices or sees things that aren’t there
• Can’t concentrate, sit still, or focus attention
• Needs to wash, clean things, or perform certain rituals many times a day
• Talks about suicide or death
• Hurts other people or animals; or damages property
• Has major changes in eating or sleeping habits
• Loses interest in friends or things usually enjoyed
• Falls behind in school or earns lower grades

Help is available for children and teens in our area. Early identification, diagnosis and treatment are so important to helping them reach their full potential.

If you are concerned about a child and notice they are exhibiting these signs, please consider consulting a mental health professional. Life Management Center has programs and services available to help, call (850) 522-4485 today to learn more about our children’s services or to schedule an appointment.

Source- Mental Health America https://www.mhanational.org/

This content provides information and discussion about mental health related subjects. The content provided and any linked material is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.