Anxiety
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Anxiety is a common response to perceived challenges, such as taking a test or competing in a game. But when the fear or worry becomes overwhelming or out of sync with the actual threat, it may be time to take a closer look. You should consider seeking help if your child:

• Worries excessively about many things, to the extent that it affects their daily life or causes withdrawal

• Is fearful of specific places (like school) or becomes distressed in new environments

• Experiences sudden episodes of intense fear, panic, or physical symptoms like a racing heart, difficulty breathing, dizziness, or nausea

• Feels compelled to repeat certain thoughts (obsessions) or perform repetitive behaviors (compulsions) to prevent imagined dangers

These signs could indicate an anxiety disorder, and early intervention can greatly help.
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Depression
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Everyone, including children, experiences moments of sadness. However, when those feelings become persistent and start to interfere with a child’s functioning, it could be depression. Children often express depression differently than adults—commonly through irritability rather than deep sadness. You should be concerned if your child shows ongoing symptoms such as:

• Mood disturbances, often appearing as irritability

• Changes in sleep habits, usually oversleeping, but occasionally difficulty falling or staying asleep

• Low energy or constant fatigue

• Decreased self-worth or self-confidence

• Trouble focusing or maintaining attention

• Noticeable changes in appetite, typically increased, but sometimes decreased

• Unusual agitation or, on the contrary, slowed movements or speech

• Any expression of self-harm or suicidal thoughts

Recognizing these symptoms early and seeking professional help can make a significant difference in recovery and well-being.
 
Substance Use
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Substance use among children and adolescents can be subtle at first, but there are clear warning signs. Watch for behavioral changes that might be linked to the use of alcohol, cannabis, hallucinogens, prescription drugs, or even over-the-counter medications that weren’t prescribed to them. Children may also misuse substances belonging to others, such as siblings or friends.
Potential signs include:

• Decline in academic or athletic performance

• Decreased interest in family or social life

• Disrupted sleep patterns

• Noticeable sluggishness or agitation

If substance use is suspected, it’s important to seek guidance—professional treatment can help address both the behavior and the underlying reasons for it.
 
Disruptions in Daily Interactions and Relationships
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It’s perfectly normal for children to have occasional rough days, but if your child is consistently struggling with day-to-day activities, it may be a cause for concern. These difficulties can show up in different ways—your child might begin avoiding social interactions with family, friends, or adults, or lose interest in play and academics.
Another sign to look for is a sudden shift in personality. For instance, a child who is usually outgoing and enjoys being around others might start to withdraw and show little to no interest in connecting. If such changes persist for several weeks or more, it could point to a deeper emotional or mental health issue that requires professional attention.
 
Changes in School Performance
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While academic struggles can occur for various reasons, a noticeable decline in schoolwork from a child who normally performs well should raise a red flag. Such changes may be a reflection of mental health challenges. If the problem continues over time and seems resistant to support, it’s wise to consult a clinician who can evaluate the child more thoroughly.
 
Acute or Prolonged Stress
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Exposure to trauma—such as violence, abuse, or neglect—can lead to long-lasting psychological effects in children. Stress in these situations may evolve into post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is characterized by symptoms like:

• Intrusive memories or flashbacks

• Recurring thoughts or mental replay of the traumatic event

• Emotional detachment or avoidance of social contact

• Heightened arousal, as if constantly on edge or ready to panic

These symptoms can seriously affect a child’s ability to feel safe or function normally. It’s essential for children who have experienced trauma to process those experiences in a safe and supportive environment—working with a mental health professional can be instrumental.
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Difficulties Adjusting
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Like adults, children go through emotional turmoil when faced with difficult life events. These can trigger a wide range of emotional responses, including anxiety, depression, or a mix of both. Common triggers include:

• Grieving the death of a loved one

• A parent losing their job

• Separation due to military deployment

• Domestic violence

• Bullying or harassment

If a child appears overwhelmed or unable to bounce back after such an event, seeking professional support can help them navigate the emotional impact.