Indications Suggesting Potential Need for a Child's Therapeutic Intervention
In the complex world of raising children, understanding and addressing their mental health needs is crucial. Here's a guide to help parents identify signs that their child may need to see a therapist and the various options available for support.
Firstly, pediatricians can play a vital role in helping parents differentiate what is and isn't normal. They offer reassurance and can provide mental health support for children. If a child is experiencing persistent emotional distress, behavioural changes, social withdrawal, academic decline, or any talk or signs of self-harm, seeking help from a child therapist or psychiatrist is advisable.
Signs to watch out for include withdrawal or isolation from friends and activities they previously enjoyed, significant changes in academic performance, persistent mood changes, behavioural changes at home, changes in eating or sleeping habits, negative self-talk, low self-esteem, or discussion of self-harm/hopelessness, risky or self-destructive behaviours, and difficulty coping with everyday activities or social withdrawal that interferes with friendships and school performance.
If a child is in immediate danger, emergency services should be contacted or they should be taken to the emergency room. For non-emergency situations, parents can consider calling a 24/7 hotline if they're unsure what to think. In the U.S., the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available for help. Outside the U.S., the International Association for Suicide Prevention can connect you with local resources.
It's important to remember that mental health treatment for children does not always involve medication or hospitalization. Therapy can be beneficial for children even if their issues are not severe, and it can involve learning new coping skills and strategies. A pediatrician can refer a child to a counselor if necessary and recommend other resources.
Parents should not be afraid to broach the topic of therapy with their child's doctor. Dr. Eastman highlights the importance of validating a child's experience in helping them feel supported. Virtual mental health support may be an option depending on location.
Early intervention can prevent worsening issues and support the child's mental health more effectively. Seeking help can make life easier and happier for a child and their parents.
Incorporating science and health-and-wellness practices, parents can work with child therapists and psychiatrists, utilizing their expertise to support their children's mental health during the complex process of parenting. Regularly engaging in therapy sessions can empower children with the necessary coping skills and strategies to deal with a range of emotional issues, even those that may not be severe.
