Children and their mental health

Hannah R.

Mental health has a compound interactive relationship with children and their physical health, how they strive in school and in their social lives. Mental health in childhood means reaching developmental and emotional milestones, and learning healthy social skills and how to cope when there are problems. Mental disorders among children are known to be extreme changes and challenges in the child’s day to day life. Children who have the same mental health disorders may differ from one another depending on their development and coping abilities. With that, the most common mental health disorders diagnosed in childhood are attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety and behavior disorders. The symptoms of childhood mental disorders often start in early childhood, but some disorders develop in the later years. Those symptoms include difficulties within learning, playing, speaking, acts and how the child handles their emotions. Although, some children who have a mental health disorder may not be diagnosed or even recognized. Catching onto childhood mental health disorders at a young age is important, as they can be treated. There are many treatment options based on the most current medical evidence. Parents and doctors should work closely with everyone involved in the child’s treatment including teachers, coaches, therapists and other family members. Taking advantage of all the resources available will help guide the child towards success. Mental health is important throughout all stages of life, as it is a part of the overall health of a person. Getting the help needed for the child is so important, as these mental health battles can continue throughout all stages of life.