In my last blog I described quite serious calls I receive on a regular basis. But for the most part the calls I receive are from parents who are worried and really not sure if their child has a serious problem. I can categorically say that most calls are about children who do not have a serious problem. But are there some guidelines that we can use to know when it is serious?

We have to remember that a parent remains the best diagnostician of her child. No one knows the temperament, behavior patterns and moods of their child better than a concerned parent. So when a child has a change in thinking, mood or behavior most parents should assume that it is probably one of those ever present times when a developing child is changing and showing the enormously wide variations in the normal cycle of growing up. So an upsurge of anxiety, a sad mood, or a disruptive bout of behavior is no cause for great concern. It will probably pass as development proceeds and will soon be forgotten.

But there is cause for concern in the following circumstances:

1. The change does not return to usual after a few weeks and especially after you have tried to help.
2. If you have tried to understand the cause for the change and have failed to get a handle on it.
3. The change is getting worse despite concerned parental intervention.
4. The child seems to be suffering in his everyday ability to feel good and function in and out of the home.

In the above circumstances a consultation with a mental health professional might go a long way in helping you understand, intervene and possibly get you and your child professional help.

But there are certain circumstances that demand immediate professional intervention:

1. Suicidal behavior including talk, threats, gestures, notes, plans, diary or internet postings or attempts.
2. Violent behavior or threats including verbal threats and of course the involvement of weapons in any way.
3. Bizarre or psychotic behavior including hearing voices, strange thoughts, suspicious paranoid behaviors or other out of control actions.
4. Substance intoxication especially with any out of control activities.

In summary most children act in new and sometimes anxiety-provoking ways but these are usually normal events involved in growing up. But when the problem hangs on, does not respond to your curious exploration and support and especially if it is getting worse and affecting her life more and more then it would be wise to get help. It still might not be too serious but a bit of education and guidance can go a long way.

 

DISCLAIMER
Information contained in this blog is intended for educational purposes only.  It is not intended as medical or psychiatric advice for individual conditions or treatment and does not substitute for a medical or psychiatric examination.  A psychiatrist must make a determination about any treatment or prescription.   Dr. Paul does not assume any responsibility or risk for the use of any information contained within this blog.