October 10th marks World Mental Health Day.
Everyone feels sad or worried from time to time – including kids.
But how can parents tell when it’s something more serious?
“Are they no longer engaging in the things that they want to do, or the things that they need to do, or maybe they’re still doing their homework, but the product that they’re producing isn’t what they’re used to. And so, we look for those changes in behavior,” said Kate Eshleman, PsyD, child psychologist at Cleveland Clinic Children’s.
Dr. Eshleman said other warning signs include increased crying, irritability or anger.
Physical complaints – like frequent headaches or stomach aches – can be red flags too.
If you notice an increase in physical or emotional symptoms, she suggests calmly asking your child about them.
“I think it’s always important to approach with curiosity, so ask open-ended questions. How are you feeling? How did you feel about that? And then, you know, kind of pare down if you feel like you need to,” she said.
Dr. Eshleman said mood concerns are common in children and teens and supporting them through it is important.
If your child isn’t opening up to you or others, she recommends reaching out to your pediatrician for help.