When should I get my child help for their mental health?

Usually, if your child is struggling with mental health, the earlier the treatment, the easier it will be for them to cope. But how can we tell the difference between serious behaviors and emotions that are a normal part of growing up? Sometimes, people will tell you that it’s “just a stage,” but you know your child better than anyone. Some things are just a stage, but some things aren't — it’s important to know the difference. If you think your child is struggling, it never hurts to talk to someone. Intervening early can be a protective factor for more serious issues, including suicide.

Some behaviors require immediate attention, such as suicidal ideation, cutting, and even eating disorders — anything that is self-harming. Other changes in mood can be due to life changes, such as a new school or a loss of a friend. These feelings may pass over time, but it ultimately depends on your child’s ability to cope with the changes.

According to NIMH, “Consider seeking help if your child’s behavior persists for a few weeks or longer, causes distress for your child or your family, or interferes with your child’s functioning at school, at home, or with friends. If your child’s behavior is unsafe, or if your child talks about wanting to hurt themselves or someone else, seek help immediately.”

In low-risk situations, you may decide to monitor their symptoms and see if anything changes over time. The criteria for many child and adolescent psychiatric disorders do require symptoms to be present for at least a period of weeks or months, so it’s important to watch and monitor what is happening. During this time, you can read and educate yourself on the signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety in kids, and start making a plan of who to contact if things escalate. Make sure you have a support team of people you can trust and talk to, such as a partner, parents, and friends. You can also start speaking to your child about what’s happening.

For more information, see our article Mental Health for Kids with Disabilities 101.