Children and Mental Health BY Ellica Matthews

Children make up a population that may sometimes be overlooked because children are
considered to be very resilient. Raising children can be very challenging even under the best of
circumstances. A child’s behavior and emotion can change quite rapidly depending on what they
have been exposed to. For example, the influence of other persons or children, and the media, or
exposure to traumatic situations. All children experience emotional changes, they may be sad,
anxious, irritable, or aggressive at times. They may occasionally find it difficult to sit still, pay
attention or not want to interact with others. In many instances it may just be a developmental
phase. However, there are behaviors that may indicate a more serious problem in some children.
Thus, when discussing Mental Health, we have to include children, because mental disorders can
begin in childhood. For example, anxiety disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder,
autism spectrum disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, mood and conduct disorders
just to name a few.

To bridge this gap and provide more knowledge here are some signs and symptoms that parents
and caregivers can look out for should a child begin to experience mental health issues:
 Regression – moving back to developmental stages they previously passed, for e.g.,
bedwetting
 Persistent sadness
 Hurting themselves, for e.g., cutting or hitting their head on a wall
 Suicidal thoughts
 Withdrawal from or avoiding social situations
 Changes in academic performances
 Consistently having difficulty sleeping or experiencing nightmares
 Outbursts of extreme irritability
 Consistent increase or decrease in sleep or appetite
 Hurting animals or younger children

Should a child start experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, we are asking that
parents reach out for help at school whether it be the School Counsellor or a Teacher to get that

child the necessary intervention. Additionally, here are some coping mechanisms to help your
child navigate this experience:
 Communicate with children in a child friendly manner
 Ask about their feelings
 Seek ways to relax and have fun with your child
 Model behaviors you want to see
 Explore stress management techniques with your children and be mindful of your
response when they are stressed
 Help your child develop positive coping strategies
 Listen without judgement to your child
 Seek professional help if the situation becomes too overwhelming (Medical,
psychological or psychiatric)

Children are the backbone of our society and may benefit from evaluation and treatment. When
you think of a mentally healthy child this means that they are reaching their developmental and
emotional milestones and learning healthy coping skills for the problems that they encounter.
They will have a positive quality of life and adjust from functioning at home to school and their
community. When you notice that this may not be the case for your child, they may benefit from
a different approach within their immediate home and school environment. You as a
parent/caregiver will know the extent of what you can handle. In instances where you feel like
your child may need additional help please reach out.

You can contact your School Counsellor or reach out to the Mental Health Rehabilitation Center
at 458-4240 or 458-6185.
Written by:
Ms. Ellica Matthews
MSc in Clinical Psychology