It’s natural for kids and teens to experience feelings of sadness, grief, anxiety and irritability at times. However, if these feelings are more intense than usual or last two weeks or more, it could be a sign of a mental health disorder.

Depression and anxiety are some of the most common mental health disorders among children and teens. Checking in with your child about their mental health is just as important as keeping tabs on their physical health. Here are some ways you can be proactive.

Understand the signs. Signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety include:

• Feeling sad, worthless, hopeless or irritable.
• Withdrawing from people or activities.
• Crying more than usual.
• Struggling academically.
• Sleeping more or less than usual.
• Worrying excessively.
• Being afraid to go places or see people.
• Repeating words or actions obsessively.
• Rapid heart rate, dizziness or nausea.

Talk openly. Ask your child about how they’re feeling. Encourage them to say what’s on their mind. Listen actively without judging. Let them know you’re there to support them.

See your child’s doctor. They can use a mental health questionnaire and other tools to diagnose depression, anxiety or other disorders. They can recommend treatments, such as therapy or medication, that may help.

Make a crisis plan. Encourage your child to come to you if they have thoughts about self-harm or suicide. Give them a list of other safe people and places they can contact if they have these thoughts. Remove weapons, alcohol and dangerous chemicals from your house.

Monitor screen time. Spending too much time texting or on social media could make your child feel more anxious or depressed. Try to emphasize in-person interactions.

Play Therapy at GRMC
The primary goal of play therapy is to help children who might struggle with expressing themselves or their emotions to express themselves through play. Play therapists help children to make sense of difficult life experiences, or complex psychological issues through play. Play therapy can include interacting with sand trays, miniatures, doll houses, puppets, board games, art, books, and more. Learn more here.

If you think your child needs professional help, talk with their doctor or a mental health provider. Treatment can help. In a crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; National Alliance on Mental Illness