Introduction
Understanding the importance of mental health in children and adolescents is paramount in today’s world. Imagine a scenario where emotional struggles in youngsters are often overlooked or misunderstood. It’s not just about facing the challenge of acknowledging mental illness within us; it’s about recognizing it in the younger members of our society, our children. Let’s delve into this critical topic with a blend of real-life examples and practical advice.
Mental Health In Children And Adolescents – Is It Important?
It is natural to experience emotional turbulence as one deals with the diagnosis of’ mental illness’ in relation to oneself or close family members. When children are involved, the level of worry and pain increases ten times. The majority of individuals in our culture cannot understand how children might suffer from mental illnesses.
The fact is that one in every ten children and adolescents suffers from a mental condition globally. Suicide is the fourth highest cause of death among 15–19 year-olds. In India, children aged 0 to 14 account for over 31% of the total population. Around 20% of the world’s teenage population lives in India. According to the National Mental Health Survey 2016, the incidence of mental problems among Indian children aged 13-17 years is 7.3%, which is considered an understatement!
What Are The Types Of Mental Health Problems Seen In Youngsters?
Apart from common psychological issues in adults such as anxiety and sadness, young people also suffer from disorders that are specific to them. These include neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), developmental delay/Intellectual Disability, and Specific Learning Disorder (SLD), as well as emotional/behavioural disorders such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Conduct Disorder (CD), substance abuse, and behavioural addictions (internet use, gaming disorder), among others. Children and teenagers may also suffer from stress-related illnesses, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar disorder, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and other psychotic conditions.
When To Seek Help?
It may be difficult to distinguish challenging behaviors and emotions that are part of normal development from mental illnesses. Consider seeking help if child’s behavior/ emotions
- Persists for weeks to months
- Causes distress to child or family
- Interferes with functioning at school, home or with friends and family
It is important to seek help immediately from the best psychiatrist in Lucknow, if you feel your child or adolescent is unsafe or if they express wishes to hurt themselves or others.
The features of mental disorders in children are often different from those in adults and vary depending on the developmental age of the child.
Whom To Approach For Help?
Concerns regarding behavioral and emotional difficulties can be explored with family doctors or pediatricians, who may then refer the child or teen to a child psychiatrist or psychologist. Health professionals at Apollomedics Hospitals which specialize in emotional and behavioral disorders in children and adolescents are educated in methods of gathering information, conducting developmentally appropriate examinations, and developing tailored treatment plans to best assist the child or teenager.
How Are Children With Mental Health Problems Treated?
Most children and adolescents will require a variety of techniques, including psychotherapy, behavior therapy, parent management training, educational interventions, and family support. When drugs are required, an experienced professional will select them after considering the risks and benefits and under close supervision.
Long-term untreated psychological issues can result in academic underperformance, drug misuse, unstable relationships, unemployment, self-harm, and suicide. When children get care early on, they are more likely to enjoy full and healthy lives as adults.
Conclusion:
In a world where competitiveness and pressure abound, nurturing a child’s mental health is paramount. As parents, caregivers, and mentors, we must strive to be allies and advocates for our children, offering support, understanding, and guidance as they navigate the complexities of growing up. Remember, by prioritizing mental health today, we empower our children to lead fulfilling and prosperous lives tomorrow. For comprehensive insights and expert guidance, schedule an appointment today to consult with our esteemed Psychiatrist at Apollomedics Hospitals Lucknow.
