Fall 2011 Newsletter Fall 2011 Newsletter in PDF format
When should we seek mental health services for our children?
While most parents recognize when their child needs medical attention, many miss the signs that their children could benefit from mental health services. I am not someone who is quick to pathologize children. In fact, I often prefer to work with parents to help their young child without the child receiving much individual treatment. It is common for kis to, at times, feel sad or misbehave. However, if you as a parent or teacher, notice the symptoms below and the symptoms persist, it may be helpful to discuss your concerns with a psychotherapist that specializes in work with children and families.
What symptoms should you look for?
That often depends on the age of the child. However, many of the symptoms overlap age categories.
For young children look for:
Regression to an earlier developmental phase such as:
toilet accidents after long period of being toilet trained
not sleeping through the night after a long period of doing so
an increase in whining or clinging behavior
an increase in nightmares or fears in general
For school age children look for:
Any of the previous symptoms plus:
For adolescents look for:
Any of the previous symptoms plus:
avoiding family and friends
loss of interest in things formerly enjoyed
often angry
trouble making decisions
talk of suicide
is very moody
feels sad or hopeless for no reason
anxiety
substance use
truancy
lying/stealing
overeating/forced voiting/abuse of laxatives
excessive exercise
destroying property
hurting people or animals
fascination with fires
risky behaviors
lack of social contact with peers
Download Newsletters
Fall 2011 Newsletter
Spring 2011 Newsletter
Fall 2010 Newsletter
Summer 2010 Newsletter