As a parent, you would be the first to notice a change in your child’s behavior. All too often, you may not be able to explain how and when it started, or even what should be done. You may initially try to manage the entire situation without asking for help. Behavioral changes can be early warning signs that something concerning is going on for your child. This can be isolating and frightening. Research shows that 21% of children will be diagnosed with a mental, emotional or behavioral health condition. Knowing that you aren’t alone is important, a skilled child therapist and psychiatric professional can help.

What are Red Flag Behaviors?

Red flags are alarming behaviors that should cause you to stop, look, think, and make a plan. They can be a single or cluster of behaviors that serve as warning for possible problems. Like other health issues, early detection of red flags can help you decide to intervene before your child’s behavior gets worse.

The following behaviors/symptoms can be concerning and deserve attention; 

• Aggression – While anyone can react with aggression from time to time, frequent and intense aggression can be a warning sign. If your child engages in violent or frightening behavior it is important that you reach out to a trained professional.
• Depressive Behavior – Like adults, it’s normal for children to feel sad from time to time. However, when your child has prolonged depressive states that persist for weeks and even months, it is worth examining with a licensed counselor.
• Body Image Concerns – As your child develops, they will become more aware of their physical appearance. This is natural, though depending on how they view themselves and the messages they receive they may begin to develop a poor body image. If you are concerned about this, finding the right therapist can make a world of difference. 
• Extreme worry – Your child may refuse to go to school, have nightmares, be irritable, confused, clumsy, throw temper tantrums, be afraid of being alone in a room, or be afraid of many things. It is important to seek help immediately to address excessive fear and worry.

Can Counseling and Medication Management Help? 

Child behavioral problems can be stressful and overwhelming. You may be uncertain and fearful about where you can find quality care and support. Carolina Counseling Services in Fayetteville, NC contracts with skilled licensed therapists and psychiatric professionals who can help. 

Therapy can be a wonderful place for you and your child to explore concerning behaviors and find new approaches. Medication management can help to treat intense, intrusive symptoms so that therapy can be even more effective. Call CCS today to schedule your first appointment. Online counseling and psychiatric appointments are also available, making getting the help you need easier than ever before!

Related Articles:

• Curbing Child Behavior Problems at Home
• Seeking Professional Help for Your Child When Needed
• The Usual Causes of Child Behavior Problems at Home
• Resolving Children’s Behavioral Issues with Counseling

Jaime Johnson Fitzpatrick LCMHCS, LCAS is one of the Owners and Vice Presidents of Carolina Counseling Services. She is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in the State of North Carolina as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in State of New York. Jaime is also certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and utilizes various other approaches in her practice.