1 in 4 children will have a mental illness during childhood1.
Children, just like adults, can and do live with symptoms of mental health conditions. National statistics show that one out of four children will have a mental illness during childhood. As adults, we can pay close attention to a child’s mood, emotions, and behaviors to know when they may need mental health assistance. Children diagnosed and treated early are more likely to have a better quality of life at home and in their communities.
Symptoms can be hard to notice in children, since they do not always look the same as in adults. Often, symptoms of mental health conditions manifest in children as changes in behavior because young children are not as able to articulate with their words how they are feeling or what they are thinking.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Mental Health Conditions in Children
- Nightmares
- Violent/Aggressive behavior
- Frequent temper tantrums not typical for their age
- Change in school performance
- Bed wetting when previously toilet trained/ beyond typical age
- Excessive worry/avoidance of life activities
- Excessive defiant/disobedient behavior
While these are some common symptoms, not all children will have the same symptoms. It is important to notice changes from a child’s typical behaviors.
Child Abuse
Child abuse includes four major categories: physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, and emotional abuse. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of the various types of child abuse. If you suspect any form of child abuse, it is Texas law to report it in order to keep the child safe [Texas Family Code Section 261.101 (a)]. Failure to report suspected child abuse is a criminal offense.
If you suspect child abuse is happening, please report to Department of Family Protective Services by calling the 24-hour, toll-free abuse hotline at 1-800-252-5400 from anywhere in the United States to report abuse or neglect that happened in Texas. You can also report online.
Additionally, you may call the National Child Abuse Hotline at (800) 4-A-Child (800-422-4453).
More Information About Children Experiencing Mental Health Conditions
There are many resources available for children experiencing symptoms of mental health conditions and their families. Visit:
- Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) – Children’s Mental Health.
- Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) for a Family Guide on the use of Children’s Mental Health Services.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) for more about what to do if your child is experiencing symptoms of mental health conditions.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Basics: A 6-session class (online or in-person) for parents and other caregivers of children living with mental health symptoms.
- Texas Children’s Mental Health Care Consortium for provider support and workforce opportunities as well as research opportunities.
- Navigate Life Texas for more information about where to start if your child receives a diagnosis.
- Navigate Life Texas for more information about when to get mental health help for children.
- Behavioral Health Awareness online training module on Serious Emotional Disturbances in Children.
Sources
- CDC – Children’s Mental Health.
https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/data.html