Children generally tend to act in unconventional ways: their behavioral pattern usually varies from that of grown-ups, and as such there are certain behaviors that have been exclusively attributed to children, which can therefore make it slightly difficult to detect and differentiate when a child’s behavior is as a result of a mental illness or merely because of their age.
In this article, we’ll take you through some signs that will help you tell whether or not your child may be suffering from mental issues. Please note that these signs may not be conclusive proofs of mental issues, and it is always advisable to seek medical help.
1. Frequent Stomach or Head aches
Because of stress or nervousness, children tend to have stomach pains or complain about their head aching. This can happen once in a while especially before or during an exam or when they are preparing for a major event. However, if your child is constantly complaining of stomach pains or headaches it is advisable to see your doctor as it could be a sign of a potential mental concern.
2. Socialization Problems
Most children are extremely friendly and extroverted, and as a matter of fact, children ought to be lively and loud, although some do tend to be a bit reserved. If you notice that your child is having serious struggles associating with others of his age over a long time, it might just be their personality, but it could also be a sign of a potential mental disorder.
3. Extreme Aggression
An excessive degree of aggression towards peers or animals could be a sign of mental issues in a child. Children who repeatedly find pleasure in hurting themselves or others are not likely to be in a perfect state of mental health. Dr. William Klykylo of Wright State University has also reiterated a similar position that such deliberate destructiveness by a child should raise concerns.
4. Unnecessary Anxiety
It is completely normal for a child to feel anxious before trying a new thing or when about to participate in an event. However, it is not normal for a child to demonstrate repeated signs of anxiety when there’s absolutely no need for such, or seriously worrying over irrelevant things.
5. Extreme Mood Swings
Extreme mood swings could develop into a serious disorder if not attended to. Mood swings are usually caused by Bipolar Mania disorder, a condition in which a person experiences extreme changes in energy, mood, behavior and thinking. This condition is usually characterized by sudden mood swings without due cause, hyper-energetic behavior, irritability, prompt and uncontrolled anger, little rest and compulsiveness.
image couresy: irishtimes.com, rd.com.
