Knowing the Signs of Behavioral Health Issues

If you have concerns about your child's behavioral health in Marion, VA, contact the team at Royal Oaks Pediatrics, and Abingdon, VA. Dr. Anita Henley, Dr. Leesa Lawrence, Dr. Tara Etter, and the skilled practitioners and nurses are ready to help with any developmental problems, including social, mental, or physical problems.

Know the Signs of Mental Health Problems In Children

For many parents, behavioral health isn't easy to identify as a problem. Some parents may think their children are just acting out or doing what kids normally do. However, a child who "acts out" is often masking underlying mental health problems.

Sadly, many parents don't see the symptoms and warning signs of serious behavioral problems. What makes it even more difficult is children lack the developmental ability or vocabulary to accurately express what they're feeling.

So, here are some common warning signs of behavioral problems with children.

• Sudden changes in mood such as withdrawal or sadness
• Overwhelming feelings or sudden, intense fear for no apparent reason
• Struggling to concentrate or losing focus
• Loss of appetite
• Physical symptoms like weight loss or vomiting
• Substance abuse among older children or teens

Treatment Options

Counseling or therapy is a common treatment option used by pediatricians. In many cases, a child or teen just needs someone to listen. Cognitive-behavior therapy is also a common treatment option that teaches parents how to interact with their children. In some instances, a doctor may prescribe medication to help children adjust and cope with their problems.

Sometimes a child benefits from a combination of treatments. Start a consultation today about your child's behavioral health in Marion, VA, and Abingdon, VA, with Dr. Henley, Dr. Lawrence, Dr. Etter, and the professional staff.

What You Can Do to Help Your Child Cope

You might feel anger, sadness, helplessness, or frustration over your child's mental health struggles. However, now is the time to give your child struggling with mental health all the support you can. When you receive your consultation, ask how you can interact with your child today if the behavior is getting more problematic.

If your child does have a behavioral issue, consider joining a support group or seek family counseling outside of the doctor's office. Also, inform a child or teen's teachers about their difficulties. Finally, don't avoid seeking help. Fear or shame isn't an excuse for not getting the help a child needs to thrive. 

Explore how behavioral health in Marion, VA, and Abingdon, VA, can have a lasting impact on a child's emotional well-being by calling Royal Oaks Pediatrics and Dr. Henley, Dr. Lawrence, and Dr. Etter at (276) 783-8183 or (276) 525-4603.