Children's Mental Health: A Guide for Parents
Plain-language information for parents and caregivers about children's emotional health, the signs that a child may need support, and how to find qualified help.
Why children's mental health matters
A child's emotional health matters as much as their physical health. Children feel the same kinds of stress that adults do: changes at home, moving to a new school, conflict with friends, illness, loss, or a frightening event. Their reactions can look different from an adult's, though. A young child may not have the words for worry or sadness and may show it instead through behavior, sleep, or physical complaints.
Most children have difficult stretches, and many of them pass with time, patience, and support at home. When problems last, grow, or start to get in the way of daily life, getting help early tends to make the work easier for the child and the whole family.
Signs a child may need help
No single sign means something is wrong. What matters is a change from how the child usually is, how long it lasts, and how much it affects home, school, and friendships. Signs worth talking to a professional about include:
- Sadness, irritability, or hopelessness that lasts for weeks
- Worry or fears that keep the child from school, sleep, or activities they used to enjoy
- Big changes in sleep, appetite, or energy
- Pulling away from friends and family
- Frequent outbursts, aggression, or trouble with behavior at home or school
- A sudden drop in schoolwork or trouble concentrating
- Frequent headaches or stomachaches with no medical cause
- Returning to younger behaviors, such as bedwetting, after a stressful event
- Talk of self-harm, or signs of hurting themselves
More detail is in signs your child may need to see a therapist. If a child talks about suicide or self-harm, or you think they are in danger, get help right away. In the US, call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or call 911. Elsewhere, call your local emergency number. See warning signs and what to do.
How to find a licensed therapist
A good first step is often your child's pediatrician or family doctor, who can rule out medical causes and suggest local providers. School counselors and psychologists can also help and may know of community services. Your health insurer can provide a list of in-network providers, and it is reasonable to meet a therapist once before deciding; a child usually does best with someone they feel comfortable with. The guide to choosing a child therapist lists the types of professionals and the questions to ask.
Guides for parents
Browse all guides with short summaries on the guides page.
Is my child okay?
Common conditions
- Anxiety in Children: What Is Typical and What Is Not
- Depression in Children and Teenagers
- ADHD in Children: Signs, Evaluation and Support
Everyday challenges
- Tantrums and Meltdowns: A Guide for Parents
- Sleep and Your Child's Emotional Health
- Screen Time, Social Media and Children's Mental Health
- Bullying and Cyberbullying: Helping Your Child
- School Refusal: When a Child Will Not Go to School
- Building Healthy Self-Esteem in Children
- How to Talk With Your Child About Feelings
Loss, change and trauma
- Helping a Child Through Grief and Loss
- Helping Children Cope With Separation or Divorce
- Helping Children After a Traumatic Event
Getting help
- How to Choose a Child Therapist
- Types of Therapy for Children and Teens
- Family Therapy: What to Expect
- Looking After Yourself as a Parent
This site offers general information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. See the disclaimer.
