How to Recognize the Signs of Mental Health Struggles in Children and Teens
Clinically reviewed by Afshan Mizrahi, Licensed Therapist
For expert guidance and compassionate care, visit hellobackpack.com to connect with one of our licensed therapists today.
Introduction
Mental Health Awareness Month is a powerful reminder that mental well-being is just as important as physical health — especially for children and teens. With nearly 1 in 5 children facing a mental health disorder each year, recognizing early warning signs can make a significant difference.
Children and teens often struggle to articulate their emotions, which can make it difficult for parents, caregivers, and educators to know when something is wrong. Understanding the signs and knowing how to offer support are crucial steps in promoting positive mental health.
Here’s how to recognize the signs of mental health struggles in children and teens — and what you can do to help.
1. Emotional Signs
Emotional struggles may show up as persistent feelings of:
- Sadness or hopelessness
- Anxiety or excessive worry
- Irritability or mood swings
These feelings might seem brief at first but can develop into ongoing patterns that affect your child’s well-being.
What to Watch For:
- Frequent crying spells or unexplained emotional outbursts
- Expressing negative thoughts like “I’m not good enough” or “Nobody likes me”
- Sudden fears or clinginess, especially in younger children
2. Behavioral Signs
Behavioral changes are often one of the most noticeable indicators of mental health struggles.
What to Watch For:
- Changes in sleep patterns — such as insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Loss of interest in hobbies, school, or social activities
- Acting out, defiance, or sudden aggression
- Withdrawal from family or friends
For younger children, this may look like tantrums or difficulty calming down. For teens, it may involve isolating themselves or skipping activities they once enjoyed.
3. Physical Signs
Mental health concerns can manifest physically as well.
What to Watch For:
- Frequent headaches, stomachaches, or unexplained pain
- Changes in appetite, including eating too much or too little
- Low energy levels or constant fatigue
If these symptoms persist without a clear medical explanation, they may be linked to emotional distress.
4. Academic and Social Indicators
Changes in school performance or friendships can also be signs that something deeper is happening.
What to Watch For:
- A sudden drop in grades or disinterest in schoolwork
- Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks
- Avoiding social situations or frequently canceling plans
- Expressing feelings of loneliness or rejection
5. How to Start a Supportive Conversation
If you notice these signs, creating a safe space for your child to talk is key.
Tips for Starting the Conversation:
- Ask open-ended questions like: “I’ve noticed you’ve been quiet lately — is there something on your mind?”
- Avoid judgment and focus on listening.
- Validate their feelings by saying things like: “That sounds really hard — I’m here for you.”
For younger children, tools like emotion cards, drawing, or storytelling can help them express what they’re feeling.
6. When to Seek Professional Help
Some signs may require additional support from a mental health professional.
When to Reach Out:
- If your child talks about self-harm or expresses suicidal thoughts
- If their behavior significantly interferes with daily life
- If emotional struggles persist despite your efforts
At Backpack Healthcare, our licensed therapists specialize in working with children and teens, providing accessible care designed to help families thrive.
Conclusion
Recognizing the signs of mental health struggles in children and teens is the first step toward offering meaningful support. By paying attention to emotional, behavioral, and physical changes — and starting open conversations — you can help your child navigate challenging feelings.
For expert guidance and compassionate care, visit hellobackpack.com to schedule a call with one of our licensed therapists today.