Mental Health Issues in Children: A Guide for Parents

One (1) in six (6) school-aged children experiences difficulties in daily life due to a mental health matter. It can get more severe as kids grow older.

Half of all mental illnesses emerge during or before the teenage years. Yet, fewer than half of these youth receive adequate treatment. The COVID-19 pandemic and other social issues have affected school-aged children more than ever.

Signs of Mental Health Issues in Children

Withdrawing from others
Having very low energy
Appearing disheveled
Losing interest in favorite activities
Trouble concentrating
Becoming easily irritated or angered
Changing eating habits
Changing sleeping patterns
Crying a lot
Giving away personal possessions
Talking about being a burden
Stealing money from family
Changes in friends; a relationship breaks off

Impact of Mental Health Issues on Children

Kids with a mental health issue may have:

Trouble making and keeping friendships
Trouble completing homework
Slowed problem solving
Absence from school
Lower grades; not graduating or attaining GED
Difficulty following school routines and norms
Feelings of isolation or they get bullied
Thoughts about attempting suicide

What Parents Can Do to Help

Keep the line of communication open. Ask your child how they’re doing and what’s happening in their world. This can be as simple as “Are you OK?” while riding in the car.
Listen intently and without judgment. Validate — rather than minimize — their frustrations, fears and feelings.
Follow their cues. Keep the conversation flowing by saying things like, “Tell me more about that. I would love to understand more about what that’s like for you.”
If your child is talking about distress, do not be afraid to ask how much it changes their mood or stress level. Respond to changes in mood or distress with something like, “That must be hard. I’m sorry you're dealing with that. What can I do to support you?” If your child says they wish they were dead, take it seriously. Asking your child directly if they are having thoughts about suicide won’t plant the idea or increase the risk that they will attempt suicide.
Seek help right away for a mental health crisis or suicide risk. Call the Crisis and Suicide Lifeline at 988. A trained adult will listen and offer guidance on getting help.