Recognizing mental illness in children | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Penfield Children’s Center
October 17, 2018
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 7 children ages 2-8 years old have a mental, behavioral or developmental disorder. Believing that a child’s behavior is simply part of the child’s personality or that the child has a difficult temper or short attention span can make it difficult for parents to recognize that their child has a mental illness. While this is true for some children, others might have an underlying mental health condition that, if not treated, could have effects that last throughout their lifetime.
It can also be common for parents to worry about stigma when deciding whether or not to seek mental health services for their child. Will my friends and family think I can’t control my child? Will the child get made fun of at school if others find out?
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While it is never too late to seek treatment for mental health disorders, early intervention can address issues in a child’s development to help prevent serious mental health concerns in the future.
Mental Health Conditions in Children:
While children and adults can develop the same types of mental health disorders, they often present differently. Some of these conditions include:
The above are just a handful of examples of mental health conditions. If you are concerned about your child’s behavior, consult your child’s physician or mental health specialist as he/she can provide an accurate diagnosis.
If your child is diagnosed with a mental health condition, it is important to remember the child can still lead a very healthy life and that the child is not alone.
Types of Help Available:
If your child is diagnosed with a mental illness, it can be helpful to seek out support. Group sessions led by a mental health professional can provide an opportunity to discuss concerns and receive feedback for managing difficult behaviors.