The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 1 in 6 children in the United States is diagnosed with either a mental, developmental or behavioral disorder. Furthermore, as children grow older, they become more susceptible to depression and anxiety.
Early diagnosis and the right interventions with the help of professionals and parents can help children manage their symptoms and emotions.
Children build emotional intelligence and social skills as they grow, but some traumatic life events can cause them to develop disruptive habits. Encourage children to prioritize their mental health from an early age so they can learn to self-soothe and validate.
Factors that can risk mental health for teens and children
Children have different responses to changes in their life. Some events, such as the following, can take a toll on their mental health:
- Physical, emotional, and sexual abuse
- Poverty
- Homelessness
- Bullying
- Parental divorce
- Moving homes, neighborhoods, or schools
- Domestic violence
- Death and natural disaster
- Birth of a sibling
If your child or teen is experiencing emotional distress due to these events, psychotherapy can help give them a space to explore their emotions.