There are many challenges one faces as a parent. Recognizing that your child might have a mental health disorder is one of them. Millions of parents around the world are unable to identify that their child may be suffering from a mental health issue since children display symptoms quite different from the ones adults display.

This Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week, let’s get educated about some common mental disorders in children and some warning signs of behavior you must look out for if you are a parent.

Common Mental Disorders in Children

1. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD is a mental disorder that can cause above-normal levels of hyperactivity. Children with ADHD have issues focusing their attention on one thing for too long or sitting for a long time. They may engage in impulsive behaviors like taking part in dangerous activities, having difficulty standing in line, interrupting conversations, etc.

2. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is a mental disorder that causes prolonged emotional distress, nightmares, anxiety, and disruptive behaviors as a result of violence, abuse, injury, or other such traumatic events. It is usually triggered by a traumatic event and causes frequent flashbacks.

3. Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a common mental disorder in children that causes them to lose touch with reality. Schizophrenics experience a disruption in their thoughts and perceptions. They might also experience hallucinations and delusions.

4. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

ASD is a neurological condition that can appear in early childhood, generally by the age of 3. A child with ASD experiences difficulty interacting and communicating with others. A child with ASD might also cause behavioral disturbances, have flat speech and poor eye contact, and experience delays when learning to speak.

5. Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety disorder in children is characterized by persistent fear and worry that does not allow them to perform well at school, play, or in any social situation. Some children with this mental disorder may be victims of social anxiety, while others may have compulsive disorders like OCD.

Warning Signs of Mental Illnesses in Children

Children suffering from mental disorders will display one or more of the following signs:

• Withdrawing from social situations
• Talking about suicide or death
• Persistent sadness for two weeks or more
• Loss of weight
• Drastic changes in moods and behaviors
• Outbursts of extreme irritability
• Changes in academic performance
• Difficulty falling asleep
• Harmful, uncontrollable behavior
• Difficulty focusing
• Hurting or talking about hurting themselves
• Changes in eating patterns
• Recurrent stomach or headaches

If your child is showing one or more of these warning signs, consult your child's physician, teacher, or a mental health expert, and describe the behaviors that concern you.

Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week 2021

Mental health is an essential part of any human being's overall health. Mental disorders in children can affect their development as well as their ability to succeed in school, play, or in society. All children have the right to lead healthy and happy lives. They deserve access to mental health care and therapy.

Join hands with us this Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week and pledge to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, connect with families that need your assistance, and increase public awareness on the subject.

If you are concerned about your child’s mental health, schedule an appointment with an experienced health care provider at Health One Family Medicine by visiting our website or calling at (469)262-5762.