When it comes to children’s behavior there is no “hard and fast rule” as to what is “normal”. Children can be bold at times and be calm in other instances. Their moods can quickly change which is not always indicative of a mood disorder like Bipolar Disorder. They can be defiant without having ODD or oppositional defiant disorder. They can be easily scared of a lot of things – shadows, being left alone, thunder or lightning, etc. – and not have anxiety. It can be difficult to know when to react, however, ignoring excessive and unnatural behaviors is also not advisable.

When a child refuses to play with other children, disobeys all instructions and/or has tantrums at the slightest provocation in public places consistently, their behavior could be unhealthy. If a child engages in repetitive behaviors, washing hands, or tucking chairs in the dining table, they may benefit from intervention. If they are excessively hyperactive, impulsive and/or inattention, seeking an assessment with a professional may be helpful.

The Hard Truth

Children are as vulnerable to emotional and behavioral conditions as adults. They can benefit from the help of a behavioral health professional who can assess their symptoms and suggest treatment that can help them. It can be difficult to recognize symptoms in children, this can leave many children untreated. Early intervention can be incredibly helpful. Knowing what signs and symptoms to watch for can help you to know when treatment may be needed.

Emotional health concerns in children aren’t unusual. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that “Emotional, behavioral, and developmental disorders begin in early childhood,” with one in six American children, aged 2–8 years (17.4%) being diagnosed with an emotional or behavioral condition. The most commonly diagnosed conditions include depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other behavioral disorders. Left untreated, children can become susceptible to other conditions. For example, if your child is experiencing symptoms of depression, they may also develop anxiety.

Prompt intervention can make a huge difference in a child’s emotional and physical health. Consulting with a professional can help. Therapy can help a child’s functioning improve, it can also promote success in school, diminish misbehavior in later life, and help the family to experience less stress as well.

Can Symptoms be Different for Children?

Despite their young age, children can develop emotional conditions at any time. Behavioral health conditions in children are described by the CDC as “serious changes in the way children typically learn, behave, or grasp their emotions, which cause distress and problems getting through the day.” These disorders, however, may have different presentations in adults. For instance, a child may be confused with their feelings, they may show irritability rather than sadness when depressed.

There is a broad range of emotional health conditions that may affect children. Three common types of disorders experienced by children are depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. The rates of childhood depression and anxiety are increasing, “yet information and awareness about childhood depression has not caught on at the same rate,” observes the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). Despite the research, there remains a significant number of the people who don’t believe that children can be depressed and anxious. This can result in “shame” and may still stand in the way of seeking treatment for children.

Children are also in danger of developing disruptive behavioral disorders, such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder, and less commonly, conduct disorder. There are also neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorders, Rett syndrome, fragile X syndrome, DiGeorge syndrome, and Mitochondrial disorders. All these conditions can increase a child’s susceptibility to mood and eating disorders.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

The signs and symptoms of an emotional, behavioral or neurodevelopmental condition may not be easy to recognize. For one, they may not be the same as adult symptoms. Not understanding their feelings or behaviors a child may exhibit symptoms by becoming angry, crying incessantly, screaming, or becoming clumsy and aloof. It is also possible to have difficulty recognizing concerns because of denial, it can be difficult to admit that your child may be having difficulties. Children can also lack the ability to efficiently express their feelings verbally.

Experts led by Mayo Clinic psychiatrist Peter Jensen came up with a list of warning signs to use in deciding if a child is struggling with an emotional or behavioral condition:

• Feeling very sad or withdrawn for two or more weeks
• Seriously trying to harm or end their life, or planning to do so
• Sudden overwhelming fear for no reason, sometimes with a racing heart or fast breathing
• Involved in multiple fights, using a weapon, or wanting to hurt others
• Severe, undisciplined behavior that can hurt themselves or others
• Not eating, throwing up or using laxatives to in order to lose weight
• Intense worries or fears that interfere with daily activities
• Extreme difficulty in concentrating or staying still that puts child in physical danger or impacts functioning at school
• Use of drugs or alcohol
• Severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships
• Drastic changes in their behavior or personality

Can Counseling Help?

It may not be easy to reach out for help when you are concerned about your child. Early intervention can make a big difference when it comes to prognosis and treatment. While this may be a difficult time for you, know that you are not alone. Therapy can help, reaching out to a counselor independently contracted with Carolina Counseling Services – Fayetteville, NC may be your first step. Call today to schedule your first appointment!