You’re likely familiar with mental health in regard to adults, but children’s mental health is just as important.
In general, children who are healthy mentally can develop at the appropriate rate, enjoy a good quality of life, and function well at home and outside the home, such as at school.
Alternatively, when a child suffers from mental health problems, they may experience difficulties with learning, behavioral issues, and trouble getting through the day.
As a parent, it is essential to understand what mental health concerns your child could potentially face and how a pediatrician can provide the support your child needs for their emotional well-being.
There are a wide variety of mental health concerns children face. For example, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common condition, causing issues with focus and impulsiveness.
What many don’t realize is that children can suffer from the same mental health troubles as adults do. From a young age, children can deal with:
Many of these conditions can exhibit symptoms similar to those experienced by adults, like irritability, changes in eating and sleeping patterns, and no desire to be social or participate in activities.
Mental health conditions in children are often treatable. The important part is recognizing signs early on and tackling any potential issues when symptoms arise.
In some cases, potential mental and emotional health conditions can even be prevented.
In any event, not only is communicating with your children important, but discussing your observations with their pediatrics doctor is also crucial.
Physical and mental health are very closely tied together. Many times, when a child is suffering mentally or emotionally, their physical health can begin to show signs of deterioration.
Mental health can affect physical functions, such as the immune system. When a child is struggling mentally or emotionally, the immune system can weaken, causing the child to get sick more often. Additionally, poor mental health can cause the child to engage in behaviors that affect the child physically, like self-harm.
Keeping a healthy balance between mental and physical health is critical for children to live their best lives.
Whether your child is exhibiting signs of a mental condition, or you would simply like to get more information on how to maintain your child’s mental health, a pediatrician or family doctor is your best ally.
You can trust your child’s pediatrician to emphasize mental and emotional health just as much as physical health.
