Mental health signs to look for: early childhood
Sometimes without warning, a child’s behavior takes a noticeable change for the worse. If they become unusually sad or suddenly disruptive, it may be difficult to determine if it’s just a phase or a symptom of something more serious. Understanding the warning signs of a significant emotional issue can help you decide when to seek professional help.
All children act out through tantrums and some level of defiance, but when these behaviors are full-blown and frequent, it may be time seek professional support. The following are some of the common warning signs of a mental health issue in young children ages 3 and younger:
- Concerns the child may harm a pet or sibling
- Exclusions from play dates because of the child’s behavior
- More severe and frequent tantrums than other children their age
- Parents are exhausted from extremely difficult day-to-day care
- Strained relationships resulting from parenting conflicts
References
If your child is showing signs of a mental health concern, resources are available for professional screenings and treatment services. Learn more about the process of seeking treatment in Stark County or contact a local mental health service provider to set up an initial screening.