Parents usually know their children better than anyone else. There are a variety of indicators that might suggest your child is having a hard time. Some possible things to look for include: 

• Suddenly complaining of illness when it is time to go to school or avoiding school
• Sudden changes in school performance
• Increase in disciplinary issues at school
• Difficulty concentrating at school and at home
• Acting out at school or home
• Sudden changes in mood or behavior
• Complaining often about physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, fatigue ( ***Please note: If your child is physically ill, please seek medical attention. Sometimes these symptoms are indicators of underlying mental health issues and sometimes sick symptoms like stomach ache and headache, especially when accompanied by other symptoms need further evaluation by your child's pediatrician.  If you have questions or concerns about your child's sick symptoms, please reach out to your school nurse or primary physician)

 

Some things that can be contributing factors: 

• Stressful situations at home such as marital or family problems, substance abuse, changes in living status, or domestic violence
• Exposure to traumatic events
• Current national or global events
• Projection of stress or worry from parents/ caregivers
• Family history of mental health issues
• Social media
• Bullying or social conflict 
• Change in close relationships
• Social Identity 
• Lack of coping skills

 
These are just some of the potential warning signs that indicate that your child is struggling. As parents and caregivers, it is important to pay attention and reach out for help when your child begins exhibiting such signs.

If you have concerns about your child's mental health, do not wait to act upon these concerns. You should contact your child's teacher, school counselor, school administrator, or mental health coordinator. Our staff members want to work with you and your child to ensure the support that he or she needs to succeed, not only academically, but socially and emotionally. We can talk with you and make referrals to the appropriate services or resources to help. 

 

***If your child is in a crisis situation or threatening to hurt themself or others, call 911 right away