3 Signs Your Child Might Be Battling A Mental Health Issue
Mental health can affect anyone, anywhere, at any age - and according to Stats Canada, mental health issues affect 1.2 million children and youth in Canada. It can range from anxiety to ADHD, poor emotional regulation and depression. At Behaviour Matters, all of our students, clients and family members are affected by it. Do you know what symptoms and signs to look out for in your child or teen? Below are 3 signs to look out for when considering if mental health could be a factor.
Self Injury
Children get hurt all the time – they touch hot items from the stove or use scissors without adult supervision and most of the time it can be accidental. But with self-injury comes intended harm. This isn’t a phase. This could be a serious sign that a battle with mental health is taking place and immediate attention is required.
Long Lasting Mood Swings
If you notice your child or your teen’s mood and behavior has changed drastically, and if it lasts for more than 2 weeks, it can be a strong sign of a mental disorder. Whether your child becomes hyperactive or extremely lethargic, these can be signs of bipolar disorders, ADHD or more. Yes children go through different emotions, but long lasting mood swings or changes is a red flag to look out for.
Lack of Concentration
A lack of concentration is not a child or teen that wants to play with their toys or watch their favourite television show, rather than doing homework. A child that lacks concentration doesn’t show interest or is incapable of playing with their toys or watching their favourite television show. These signs are symptoms of ADHD or depression. This is extremely important to keep an eye out for as trouble with concentration in a child can lead to issues within their academic and social life.
If you see any of these 3 signs in your child please give us a call at (416) 655-4194 or email us at info@behaviourmatters.ca to discuss some of the programs, individual sessions and coaching workshops we have at Behaviour Matters in order to give your child or your teen the help they need.