Recognizing your child needs help
Children’s mental health issues can be difficult to identify
Mental health issues in children and youth don’t always look the same as they do in adults. Sometimes, it’s hard to put a finger on what doesn’t seem right. But, if you find yourself questioning your child’s behaviour or are feeling concerned, don’t hesitate to take action and reach out for help.
Many parents and caregivers tell us that when they are starting to recognize their child may be experiencing a mental health issue that they turn to friends and family who, trying to be supportive, often say things like ‘this is normal’ or ‘it’s just a phase’. They don’t always realize their comments may make you question your own judgement or delay taking action.If you have worries about your child’s behaviour or emotional well-being, it’s important to recognize those worries and take action as soon as possible.
On this page, find:
- Understanding mental health in children and youth
- Your family’s role
- Signs of mental health struggles in children and youth
- Resources to start looking for help
Understanding mental health in children and youth
1 in 5 children and youth in Ontario will experience some form of mental health problem
- At least 70 % of mental illness starts in childhood/adolescence.
- 17% of children ages 2-5 years meet diagnostic criteria for mental health problems.
- 12% of kids will have a serious mental illness before the age of 18
- 62% of Ontario youth report concerns about anxiety
Canada’s youth suicide rate is the third highest in the industrialized world. When young people experience mental health challenges, not only does it impact their home, school and work life but also their families, friends and peers.
About child and youth mental health
Mental health concerns in children and youth can be both emotional and behavioural. Emotional may include concerns about mood (such as sadness or irritability) or concerns about anxiety.
Behavioural can include concerns with anger and violence, as well as difficulties paying attention. All children and youth may experience brief problems with some or all of these, but when the problem starts to interfere with school, family, or everyday living, it may be time to reach out for help.
A person who is in good mental health is someone who is satisfied with life and is able to function well at home, work and/or school. It is not just the absence of mental illness, but the positive presence of health and wellness.
Your family’s role
Signs of mental health struggles in children and youth
Often, children and youth will present signs of mental illness in ways that are not quite the same as adults. You may observe changes in behavior, mood, sleep patterns, appetite and/or interactions with others that are having a negative effect on your child’s day to day activities.
- Extreme outbursts or excessive mood swings
- Worrying so much that they are getting stomach aches or headaches
- Persistent nightmares and a lack of sleep that are affecting your child’s day
- Avoiding formerly enjoyable activities, including spending time with friends
- Unusually quiet, sad or reserved, preoccupied
- Change in appetite – eating considerably less, or more
- Behavioral issues at school or challenges to get your child to attend school
- Grades are slipping and your child shows a lack of concern
- Sleep hygiene and personal hygiene issues
If you are worried about your child, and your gut is telling you that something is wrong, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
If you can’t find a chapter near you, please contact support@pcmh.ca
We do not provide crisis or clinical services of any kind. Our emails will be answered within 48 hours. If you, or someone you love is at immediate risk please contact your local emergency services or dial 911.
Start looking for help
Start by checking in with your child or youth’s doctor. Many physical illnesses can mimic the symptoms of mental illness. A physical exam can help to rule out certain illnesses. A family doctor or an expert in child mental health may identify the child needs further support or treatment. Once you know your child has a mental health issue, find a Children’s Mental Health Ontario child and youth mental health centre in your regions. Across Ontario, we represent nearly 100 accredited centres with more than 4,000 experts providing support to children, youth, and their families. We know that finding the right support can be a difficult process and we want to help.