Children’s Mental Health: 10 Signs To Look Out

Children as young as 4 are showing signs of mental health problems,  that's according to a recent survey published in the Telegraph  Whether the cause of mental health problems is through excessive use of social media or emotional child abuse, it is extremely heartbreaking to see a child go through a mental illness. As child carers, you want your children to be in good health, both mentally and physically.  The signs for a child who is physical hurt is quite easy to spot. If a child is hurt, then you would see a bruise, a scratch or a bump. But with mental health, the signs are not so obvious to spot  This post will share 10 signs to look out for if you think a child has a mental health problem. 

1. Low mood

One of the main symptoms of depression is experiencing low moods. If you see a child who seems upset even when other children are enjoying their activities, then there is a good chance the child could be suffering from depression. Although this is not definitive, it could be that the child might be upset by a recent event. If you see a child in a low mood, go up and talk to them.

2. Difficulty in Concentration

When a child has a mental health issue, their mind is not focused on the present. Chances are, they could be wallowing in a stream of negative thoughts which are bringing them down. If you believe the child has a mental health problem, don't single them out in front of everyone. Gently take the child to a quiet place to see if the child is okay. 

3. Loss of Appetite

Mental health sufferers tend to lose their appetite. As child carers, look out for signs of any drastic weight loss. Prolonged weight loss can lead to physical ailments in the future.

4. Anxious

Anxiety happens to the best of us, especially when we are nervous. But anxiety disorders can be extremely crippling and prevent children from reaching their true potential. If you notice a child becoming anxious and constant reassurance is not helping to put the issue at bay, then the child might have an anxiety disorder. 

5. Panic Attacks

Panic attacks occur as result of intense feelings of anxiety which lead to an increase in heart rate and rapid breathing. 

6. Drastic Changes in Behaviour

A major symptom of bipolar disorder is drastic changes in moods and behaviour. If you notice a child who regularly goes through two extremes in a short period of time, then you have to bring this to the attention to senior members of staff. 

7. Listen to What They Are Saying

Sometimes, you might be able to discover if a child has a mental health issue by listening to what they are saying. Things to look out for are if a child is talking in a sad or dejected manner. Sometimes, a child might not want to open up due to fear of embarrassment so do pick up on this when a child has difficulty in expressing themselves.  

8. Look at Their Drawings

Although this sign might sound a bit cliche, but research has shown that children drawings can help to identify if a child is going through a mental health issue.

9. Self-harm

This is a very obvious sign to look out as it is physically noticeable. Children who injure themselves through cuts need immediate attention. 

10. Constantly Feeling Tired

Coping with a mental health issue can take up a lot of energy and on many occasions can lead to a lack of sleep. Fatigue and tiredness can be spotted through heavy eyelids, low energy or lack of concentration. 

If You Notice Any Of These Signs, Take Action 

Mental health is a serious issue. And with children now experiencing cases of mental health problems, it is time to look out for these signs to ensure the safety of their well-being. In most cases, it could just be a case of getting the child to properly express themselves and you listening to what they need to say in a non-judgemental manner. 

Want To Work With Children?

If you're interested in working with children, then The Learning Station can help. We're a London-based training provider that deliver accredited childcare courses through online distance learning. Our courses provide a great deal of flexibility so you can study at your own pace and at your own time. For more information, please do get in touch, or you can contact us directly on 020 8342 7210.
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