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
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.
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.
Professionals who work with children and families include licensed psychologists, child and adolescent psychiatrists, licensed clinical social workers, licensed professional counselors, and licensed marriage and family therapists. When you contact one, it helps to ask:
- Are you licensed in this state? (Most state licensing boards let you check a license online.)
- How much of your work is with children or teenagers of my child's age?
- What kind of approach do you use, and how will parents be involved?
- How will we know whether it is helping?
- Do you accept our insurance, and what are the fees?
Your health insurer can provide a list of in-network providers. It is also reasonable to meet with a therapist once before deciding; a child usually does best with someone they feel comfortable with.
Supporting a child at home
Parents and caregivers make a large difference. Listening without rushing to fix things, keeping regular routines for sleep and meals, spending some calm one-on-one time together, and letting a child know that feelings can be talked about all help. Looking after your own stress matters too, because children notice it.
This site offers general information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. See the disclaimer.
