In today’s rapidly changing world, therapy is recommended for adults, but even children are no strangers to mental concerns. If you observe a dramatic change in your child’s behaviour, it may be best to visit a therapist to better understand what might be happening with them. A therapist can appropriately guide your child through the tough emotions they are experiencing. Therapists have the skills and competency to navigate the issues, and support the child, and their caregivers.
Here are seven indicators for when your child might benefit from counselling.
Their Behaviours Have Changed
If your child is acting out while at home and even in public places, there could be something deeper going on. Aggressive behaviours typically indicate hurt or distress, and the child is not able to communicate their needs and feelings appropriately or it does not feel safe to do so. If you notice this behaviour these behaviours are more frequent than usual, it could be your child trying to express themselves, but they are unable to adequately do so with words; they are emotionally overwhelmed or experiencing distress and their resulting behaviours are a way to cope; they have an attachment need that needs to be met. A therapist can work with the child and caregivers to establish new and healthy coping behaviours and regulation techniques.
There’s a Sudden Change in Their Habits
If you notice any new and unusual changes in your child’s habits or interests, lasting for more than two weeks. These behaviours or changes are typically easier to recognize. For example, not using the bathroom, or not wanting to be alone. Changes on habits are not uncommon, but if it seems out of the ordinary, sudden, or longer-lasting where you are concerned, then it may be worth exploring what might be happening.
They Experience Intense Sadness
Even though sadness is a normal feeling, ongoing and increased levels of sadness can indicate that your child may be struggling with something deeper. It may be that your child is going through a difficult situation at home or at school and needs an outlet to communicate what is happening, or it may be indicative of symptoms of depression or anxiety.
They Throw Temper Tantrums
When children feel misunderstood or frustrated, they often express themselves through anger. Think about this – kids don’t have the same capacity as adults to regulate and think logically when in distress; their brained are not fully developed. If adults can sometimes get snarky when we are frustrated or annoyed, then it makes sense that children will react emotionally when they don’t have the words to express themselves or don’t have their emotional needs met.
There Are Physical Symptoms
Sometimes, children’s mental issues appear as physical ailments like headaches and stomach pains. Physical symptoms can result from things like panic, fear, worry, anxiety, etc. After your visit to the pediatrician, don’t hesitate to make a stop at the child counsellor’s office.
They Are Socially Isolated
If your child avoids being part of social situations way too often, it might be because of fear or anxiety. Past negative events may have resulted in your child not wanting to participate in social events. They may not feel safe, or they may have a fear of embarrassment, or fear of being ridiculed or teased. Isolation from others and activities are a protective mechanism, but it also doesn’t allow them to experience new and healthy social situations or events.
They Are Prone to Self-Harm
A clear signal for a therapist’s help is when your child indicates thoughts about harming themselves or engages in intentional self-harming behaviours. Signs of self-harm can be digging or scratching into the skin, hitting themselves, cutting, biting, pulling their hair. These behaviours are a way of coping with emotional distress. Working with a therapist can help your child address the root of the issues they are struggling with and develop healthier coping methods to deal with their emotions.
Our caring and professional therapists at Onyx Counselling and Psychotherapyare here to support you and your child’s mental well-being. We provide in-person services, virtual counselling and various mental health workshops. Book your appointment today.
