Children can also experience anxiety, depression and more. Pay attention to the symptoms

It might start innocuously. Your child, who previously loved playing soccer and hanging out with friends, slowly loses interest in his favourite hobby. Or, your usually mild-tempered child suddenly has outbursts over trivial issues.

All children naturally go through various phases and stages in their growth and development. The onset of puberty brings many changes, including mood swings and hormonal disruptions. But what happens when you get the feeling that this isn’t normal childhood fluctuations in temperament? The stark truth is that sometimes, it’s not just a phase. Mental health conditions can begin in childhood, and when left unaddressed, they often continue into adolescence and adulthood.

According to the World Health Organization:

Globally, one in seven 10-19-year-olds experiences a mental disorder, accounting for 15% of the global burden of disease in this age group.
Depression, anxiety, and behavioural disorders are among the leading causes of illness and disability among adolescents.
Suicide is the third leading cause of death among those aged 15–29 years old.
The consequences of failing to address adolescent mental health conditions extend to adulthood, impairing both physical and mental health and limiting opportunities to lead fulfilling lives as adults.

Common mental health conditions in childhood

Remember, your child may not always be able to articulate their feelings. In some cases, they may be scared to bring it up, fearing that it’s “wrong” in some way, or they may be punished. It’s vital for parents to create a nurturing space so children feel comfortable to share their emotional state.

Children may experience excessive worry, fear, or uneasiness that can interfere with their daily activities.
Depressive symptoms, such as persistent sadness, loss of interest, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and low self-esteem.
ADHD: characterised by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which can impact your child’s ability to focus and regulate their behaviour.
Children with autism spectrum disorders often have challenges with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviours.
Children with conduct disorders may exhibit aggressive and antisocial behaviour, disregard for rules, and a lack of empathy or remorse.
Conditions such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder can affect young girls and boys, leading to abnormal eating patterns and negative body image.

Why are children at risk?

Just as some children inherit physical traits from their parents, they can also inherit a predisposition to certain mental health conditions. Some children may have a genetic tendency that makes them more susceptible to developing mental health issues.

We have to consider emotional challenges as well. Often, children go through difficult experiences that impact their mental wellbeing. These challenges may include bullying, loss or trauma, or dysfunctional family dynamics. The effects of these elements can manifest as sadness, anger, depression, or anxiety.

We also can’t discount the unique stressors and pressures that modern children face. From increasing academic demands to social media exposure – children are more stressed than ever.

Humans are social creatures and children need healthy relationships and connections to thrive. When children struggle with social interactions, such as making friends or feeling excluded, this may have a negative impact on their mental health. Loneliness and social isolation can contribute to feelings of sadness or anxiety.

Warning signs parents should not ignore

Early detection is critical. Watch for:

Sudden or persistent mood changes
Withdrawal from friends or activities
Declining school performance
Changes in sleep or appetite
Excessive fears or worries
Aggressive or risky behaviour
Difficulty concentrating

If these signs persist for weeks or interfere with your child’s daily life, it’s time to take action.

How to support your child’s mental health

Remember, mental health issues can affect anyone, including children. It’s essential to be supportive, understanding, and observant of children’s emotional wellbeing. If you notice persistent changes in a child’s behaviour, mood, or ability to function, it’s important to get professional help from a specialist who can provide specific guidance and support.

Be cognisant of the content your child is exposed to through media and technology. Set appropriate limits on screen time and encourage activities that promote physical activity and face-to-face interactions. Be mindful of the potential negative impact of cyberbullying or excessive social media use.

When to see a child psychologist

If you’ve exhausted your options, and are unable to get your child to open up, consider talking to a child therapist. It’s important to monitor your child’s symptoms and behaviours. Chronic sadness, feelings of hopelessness, actively avoiding friends and family, self-harm, destructive behaviours, and physical symptoms, are all clear indicators that your child isn’t just going through a phase. Take the signs seriously and seek help.