CHILDREN AND MENTAL HEALTH
Many mental health problems stem from childhood. There are many children dealing with anxiety and depression. In fact, suicide the leading cause of death among young people (CDC). Children may experience different mental health symptoms, compared to adults, so it is crucial to talk to your children about their mental health.
WARNING SIGNS
-Sudden change in mood or behavior
-Loss of appetite
-Physical harm
-Substance abuse
-Not doing well in school or missing class
-Unexplained weight loss
-Overwhelming fear or intense feelings
-Loss of energy
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MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS IN CHILDREN
-Anxiety
-Depression
-ADHD
-Bipolar Disorders
-Eating disorders
-Schizophrenia
COMMUNICATION
Listen to your children when they are expressing their concerns to you. It may be hard for some children to express their feelings to their parents so it is very important that parents check in on their kids every chance they get. If you suspect your child may be suffering from a mental health illness, talk to your child's teacher to see if there is a change of behavior and reach out to your child's doctor.