Children develop rapidly during their growing years. These changes occur in their physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. Diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders in children must account for the developmental changes that occur so rapidly.  Some problems are mild and can be mastered without any outside help. Other more serious problems need the attention of professional help. Today we know that many brain disorders such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder can begin in childhood. About 1 in 10 children and adolescents living in America suffer from mental illness causing them some problems with their daily functioning. Less than 1 in 5 of these children receive help for their problems.  Most of the time children master their developmental tasks well; however some of the time they might need assistance in attaining appropriate behaviors and skills through counseling or psychotherapy. An important aspect of metal health in children and adolescents is the successful progress through developmental milestones. Successful attainment of these milestones might be indicated by the ability to cope effectively with stressors, having satisfying relationships with family, in school, and with peers, and a secure attachment to their caregivers. Throughout their development children will grow, mature, and change. Counseling can help your child or teen overcome some obstacles that have affected their development. Through the therapeutic relationship your child will explore the meaning of experiences, feelings, behaviors, alternatives, consequences and goals, and find workable solutions to their problems.

Q: How do I know if my child's problems are serious?

A: Many everyday stresses cause changes in behavior. The birth of a sibling may cause a child to temporarily act much younger. It is important to recognize such behavior changes, but also to differentiate them from signs of more serious problems. Problems deserve attention when they are severe, persistent, and impact on daily activities. Seek help for your child if you observe problems such as changes in appetite or sleep, social withdrawal, or fearfulness; behavior that seems to slip back to an earlier phase such as bed-wetting; signs of distress such as sadness or tearfulness; self-destructive behavior such as head banging; or a tendency to have frequent injuries. In addition, it is essential to review the development of your child, any important medical problem he/she might have had, family history of mental disorders, as well as physical and psychological traumas or situations that may cause stress. When a tragedy occurs or some extreme stress hits, every member of a family is affected, even the youngest ones. This should also be considered when evaluating mental, emotional, or behavioral symptoms in a child.

Q: Whom should I consult to help my child?

A: First, consult your child's doctor. Ask for a complete health examination of your child. Describe the behaviors that worry you. Ask whether your child needs further evaluation by a specialist in child behavioral problems. Such specialists may include psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, social workers, and behavioral therapists. Educators may also be needed to help your child.

Q: How are mental disorders diagnosed in young children?

A: Similar to adults, disorders are diagnosed by observing signs and symptoms. A skilled professional will consider these signs and symptoms in the context of the child's developmental level, social and physical environment, and reports from parents and other caretakers or teachers, and an assessment will be made according to criteria established by experts. Very young children often cannot express their thoughts and feelings, which makes diagnosis a challenging task. The signs of a mental disorder in a young child may be quite different from those of an older child or an adult.

Q: Won't my child get better with time?

A: Sometimes yes, but in other cases children need professional help. Problems that are severe, persistent, and impact on daily activities should be brought to the attention of the child's doctor. Great care should be taken to help a child who is suffering, because mental, behavioral, or emotional disorders can affect the way the child grows up.

Q: Which mental disorders are seen in children?

A: Mental disorders with possible onset in childhood include: anxiety disorders; attention deficit and disruptive behavior disorders; autism and other pervasive developmental disorders; eating disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa); mood disorders (e.g., major depression, bipolar disorder); schizophrenia; and tic disorders. Under some circumstances, bed-wetting and soiling may be symptoms of a mental disorder.