Common Mental Health Issues for Children and Teens
Understanding mental health can be tricky, but learning about common conditions and their effects is important for offering support. In this blog, we look at typical mental health disorders for children and teens, their signs, and why seeking help matters. Knowing about these issues can help people recognize their symptoms, get help, and start on a path to better health.
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders involve a lot of worry, fear, or nervousness. Children and teens with anxiety might have general anxiety, social anxiety, specific fears, or separation anxiety. They may worry too much, avoid certain situations, have stomach aches or headaches, find it hard to concentrate, or get easily irritated. Therapy, coping strategies, and a supportive environment can help. Pathway offers counseling and resources to support young people dealing with anxiety.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a disorder that makes it hard to focus, sit still, and control impulses. Children and teens with ADHD might have trouble paying attention, be restless, talk a lot, act impatient, and find it hard to follow instructions. Managing ADHD can involve behavioral therapy, routines, and sometimes medication. Pathway provides assessments, counseling, and resources for children and teens with ADHD.
Depression
Depression in children and teens can look like sadness, hopelessness, or irritability, along with changes in sleep, appetite, and interest in activities. They might have low energy, withdraw from others, get irritated, eat or sleep differently, and do worse in school. Pathway can help by providing therapy and family support. If needed, Pathway will work with a physician to evaluate the benefits of medication.
Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)
Reactive Attachment Disorder is a condition where children and teens have trouble forming strong, healthy relationships with others. This usually happens as a result of not having proper care when they were very young. They might have difficulty trusting others, difficulty showing emotions or have emotional outbursts, irritability, avoiding comfort or seeking out affection from strangers. Pathway provides assessments, counseling, groups, family treatment and resources to help children and teens with Reactive Attachment Disorder.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder causes extreme mood swings, from high (mania) to low (depression). Children and teens with bipolar disorder might have intense emotions, act impulsively, have energy changes, and find it hard to control their moods. Therapy, medication, and stable routines can help. Pathway offers counseling and resources to support young people with bipolar disorder.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
OCD involves unwanted thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repeated actions (compulsions). Children and teens with OCD might wash their hands a lot, check things repeatedly, have intrusive thoughts, and get upset if routines are disrupted. Treatment can include cognitive-behavioral therapy and a supportive environment. Pathway provides counseling and resources for managing OCD.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD can happen after a traumatic event. Children and teens with PTSD might have flashbacks, nightmares, avoid triggers, be easily startled, and have mood changes. Helping them involves providing safety, therapy, and coping strategies. Pathway offers trauma-focused counseling and resources for managing PTSD.
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
ODD is marked by defiance, hostility, and not following rules. Children and teens with ODD might have frequent temper outbursts, argue with adults, be vindictive, and struggle with rules. Treatment can include behavioral therapy, parent support, and structured routines. Pathway provides counseling and resources for managing ODD.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
ASD is a developmental disorder affecting social communication and behavior. Children and teens with ASD might have trouble with social interactions, repetitive behaviors, sensory sensitivities, and intense focus on specific interests. Support involves structured environments and specialized therapies. Pathway offers assistance in finding resources and counseling to help manage ASD.
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders, like anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating, can affect children and teens. Signs include significant weight changes, focus on food or body image, secretive eating, and avoiding social meals. Treatment involves medical, nutritional, and psychological help. Pathway will connect young people with a referral for specialized treatment.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse involves the harmful use of alcohol, drugs, or other substances. Signs include behavior changes, dropping grades, withdrawing from family and friends, and physical changes like bloodshot eyes. Treatment involves assessments, therapy, and family support. Pathway provides counseling for children and teens at risk of future substance use or dependence and will provide referrals for specialized treatment when needed.
Take the First Step towards Well-Being
If you or someone you know needs support for mental health issues, contact Pathway Caring for Children. Understanding common mental health disorders and their impact is key to recognizing symptoms, seeking support, and starting a journey toward better health. Pathway offers personalized care and resources to help individuals prioritize their well-being and resilience.