Children, Adolescents, & Teens Can Have Mental Health Issues


What is Mental Health?

How we think, feel, and behave as we face everyday situations.

What are the causes?

There may be biological, psychological, and/or sociological issues.

Are children, adolescents & teens affected?

Yes, they have mental, emotional, and behavioral problems that are real and painful to
the person, family, and teachers.

When should a counselor be sought?

When painful feelings and behaviors persist or disrupt a child’s ability to function
emotionally, academically or socially.

Why is building and protecting a child’s mental health crucial?

It enables healthy growth, positive feelings, rational decisions, and productive actions.  
It impacts your child’s daily life and future.  

Are mental health problems common in young people?

Yes, but they can range from mild to severe.  Parents and teachers can best see
negative changes.


Mental Health Warning Signs











      








A Team Approach
Children, adolescents, and teens can be helped when parents and school personnel
work together with mental health service professionals.  The mental health needs of
the individual can be best addressed by a Co-ordinated effort and when a range of
services are available.



Troubled Feelings                   
Observed Changes
Really sad or hopeless feelings
Sudden drop in grades
Often angry /overacts  
Loss of interest in enjoyable things
Thoughts of guilt, worthlessness, or
self-doubt
Frequent crying
Overly worried or fearful
Eating or sleeping pattern altered
Can’t cope with a traumatic event
Seeks isolation or avoids people
Limiting Factors                    
Problem Behaviors
Can’t focus or sit still              
Uses drugs/alcohol   
Poor concentration/ Confusion  
Eats Too little or Eats-Vomits
Thoughts of being hurt or hurting others
Obsessive behavior
“Hears” voices
Lies, argues, or Distracts by changing the
topic  
  
Nightmares / Lack of Sleep    
Willingly disobeys parents, teachers,or law
Needing to change clothes/wash self
Threatens suicide or does risky things
frequently