Recognising the signs of a mental disorder in children
The first years of life are a critical period for the development of good mental health. It is important to recognise problems as soon as they appear and to intervene early.
Signs and symptoms
Parents can detect changes in the mood and behaviour of their children that can potentially be signs of a mental disorder. As a parent, pay attention to the following changes in your child’s behaviour:
- Difficulty sleeping, or the opposite, sleeping all the time
- Loss of appetite, or the opposite, eating a lot and uncontrollably
- Low energy
- Complaints about nausea, stomach aches or headaches
- Constant mood swings, or anger that appears excessive
- Constant worrying
- Academic performance that is lower than usual
- Seeming to have difficulty concentrating
- Avoidance of family and friends
- Lost of interest in activities previously enjoyed
- Hitting or intimidating others, or voluntarily trying to inflict self-injury
- An obsession with losing weight, or the opposite, neglecting his appearance
What to do
If your child shows some of the above signs and symptoms, do not worry and continue to observe them. Perhaps they are experiencing a problem that will last a few days only and do not necessarily have a mental illness. Stay attentive, listen to them without prejudice and assure them that you are there to help.
If you see that the changes in your child’s mood and behaviour persist or that they are becoming more intense, an assessment by a professional could be necessary.
Help and resources
Information and support resources
Resources are available for parents and children who wish to receive help or more information about mental illness in children:
- LigneParents
(toll-free helpline: 1 800 361-5085 – website in French only)
This free and confidential service is available day and night to all parents of children aged between 0 and 20 years. The service is provided by professionals. - Tel-jeunes (toll-free helpline: 1 800 263-2266)
This free and confidential service is available day and night to all young people between 5 and 20 years old. The service is provided by professionals. - 20 questions about mental health
Naître et grandir
You may also go to Access to mental health services page to find all available mental health resources.
Resources for care and services
To receive care or services, or to find a psychotherapist with whom your child feels comfortable, contact one of the following resources:
See also
Last update: October 29, 2018
