Main Address : 15-01 Broadway 24, Fair Lawn, New Jersey, 07410 & Ny Address- 2550 Boston Road, Bronx, NY 10467
Appointment

Mental Health in Children

Mental health in children is an important topic that needs to be addressed because children are not immune to mental illnesses. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one in every six children in the United States has a diagnosed mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder. However, many mental health conditions in children go undiagnosed, which can lead to worsening symptoms, inadequate performance in academic and social settings, and increased risk of substance and addiction disorders.

The most common mental health disorders that occur in children are:

  1. Anxiety disorders
  2. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD)
  3. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
  4. Depression
  5. Mood Disorders
  6. Conduct Disorders
  7. Eating Disorders

There are many different causes of mental illness in children. Some genetics play a role, where he parents or close relatives have a mental illness or have a history of addiction. Mental illnesses in the child can also be due to early childhood traumas, such as abuse or neglect, social isolation/common loss, family life changes and environmental factors such as poverty or substance abuse exposure in childhood.

The most important thing is to recognize the symptoms of these disorders so that children can get the appropriate care and support. Symptoms may include:

– Changes in sleep and eating habits 

– Difficulty sleeping or being awake because of nightmares or anxious thoughts 

– Social withdrawal or isolation 

– Lethargy and apathy 

– Decline in academic performance 

– Mood swings and emotional outbursts 

– Suicidal thoughts or self-harm tendencies 

– Substance misuse tendencies in teenagers 

Implementing structure and healthy relationships can go a long way into preventing mental illness in children. 

Family intervention and support with counseling to avoid stigma and allow for healthy conversations around mental health can help ensure the child’s overall well-being. Early interventions, such as therapy sessions or medications, can help address underlying issues in childhood development and prevent mental illness from deteriorating into adulthood. With the right care at the right time, children suffering from mental health issues can lead healthy and fulfilling lives.