“How do you feel?” For kids, like all of us, the answer isn’t just about the body but the mind, too. As children develop and grow, good mental health is as important as physical health. Some kids may be fighting an illness or a disease and feel anxious. Other kids may face challenges in their daily life. If your child is struggling, the caring practitioners at Banner Children’s are here to help. Learn more about identifying and caring for pediatric mental health disorders in your child.
Mental health for children and adolescents reflects the learning development and emotional development as they grow. Children and young adults are learning how to cope with emotions and constantly learning social skills. If you start to notice emotional and behavioral changes in your child, reach out to your pediatrician to answer any question you may have.
Some mental health disorders to be aware of as your child grows and develops include:
Children who have been diagnosed with a disorder or disease, like cancer, are not only going through a lot physically, but emotionally and mentally as well. It’s important to talk to your child about how they are feeling during these hard times. Talk to your pediatrician and other Banner Children’s team members about how to best keep your child’s spirits high during tough times.
It’s important to differentiate between when your child may be having an off day and when they are expressing repeated negative behaviors. Keep an eye out for symptoms like:
Talk to your pediatrician if you have concerns about your child’s mental health. They may recommend treatment options, such as:
While it may be difficult to determine if your child has a mental health disorder, it’s important to take action early if you notice something is off. The team at Banner Children’s is here to help you and your child along this journey.