Some Warning Signs

  • Some Warning Signs

    Though mental health problems are not always easy to see in children and adolescents, there are some signs and symptoms you can be on the lookout for.

     

    Thinking

    • Persistent nightmares
    • Unusual thoughts or beliefs
    • Thoughts that race too fast
    • Poor concentration
    • Inability to focus attention
    • Hearing of voices that cannot be explained
    • Suicidal thoughts

    Feelings

    • Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
    • Angry feelings
    • Anxious or worried feelings
    • Sense of worthlessness and guilt
    • Sense of agitation and uneasiness
    • Feelings that life is too hard or has no meaning

    Behavior

    • Decrease in school performance
    • Loss of interest or effort in things he or she usually enjoys
    • Unexplained changes in sleeping, and/or eating habits
    • Frequent crying and overreaction to small things
    • Avoidance of friends or family
    • Hyperactivity or frequent fidgeting
    • Frequent breaking of rules and/or getting in trouble with the law
    • Use of alcohol or other drugs
    • Threats of hurting him or herself or other people
    • Lack of remorse or guilt when others are hurt
    • Dangerous or life threatening actions
    • Cruelty to animals
    • Fire setting
    It is important to note that many of these signs and symptoms may occur as part of a child and/or adolescent's normal development.  If you are not certain if you should see help for your child, contact your child's healthcare provider or school counselor for guidance.

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