Mental health matters: reading the signs

Spotting mental health issues in children and young people with disabilities can be complex due to the different ways that their diagnosis may present. For instance, if your child is non-speaking, or exhibits certain behaviours related to their disability, pinpointing specific mental health red flags can be challenging. Nevertheless, it is crucial for caregivers, educators, and support networks to be aware of potential signs indicating mental health concerns.

While some nuances may vary – especially in ‘non-typical’ children – changes in behaviour, mood, social interactions, physical symptoms, or expressions of distress should never be overlooked.*

Here are some indicators to watch for:

CHANGES IN BEHAVIOUR

Pay attention to significant shifts in your child’s behaviour. This could include sudden mood swings, increased irritability or anger, withdrawal from social interactions, or a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed. Abrupt changes in behaviour patterns, especially if they persist over time, may signal underlying emotional distress.

DIFFICULTY COPING WITH STRESS

Every child faces stressors, but difficulty coping with stress can be a red flag. Notice if your child becomes overwhelmed easily, struggles to manage emotions during challenging situations, or exhibits physical symptoms like headaches or stomach-aches in response to stressful situations.

ACADEMIC DECLINE

A decline in academic performance, particularly if it’s inconsistent with their previous abilities, can indicate underlying mental health issues. Watch for changes in concentration, motivation, and engagement in schoolwork, as well as frequent absences.

CHANGES IN SLEEPING OR EATING PATTERNS

We know that many of the diagnoses our children have come with their fair share of eating and sleeping challenges. However, keep an eye out for new or increasing disruptions in sleeping or eating habits which can be indicative of emotional distress. Pay attention to significant changes such as insomnia, nightmares, oversleeping, loss of appetite, binge eating, or new and unusual food rituals.

PHYSICAL COMPLAINTS WITHOUT MEDICAL CAUSE

Children experiencing mental health challenges may express physical complaints like headaches, stomach-aches, or other vague symptoms without a clear medical cause, or a cause that’s somewhat ‘normal’ for their disability. While it’s essential to rule out medical issues, persistent physical complaints with no underlying medical/diagnosis explanation may warrant further exploration into their emotional well-being.

LOSS OF INTEREST IN HOBBIES OR RELATIONSHIPS

If your child suddenly loses interest in activities they once enjoyed or begins to withdraw from relationships with family members or friends, it could be a sign of emotional distress or depression.

SOCIAL WITHDRAWAL

Notice if your child begins to isolate themselves or withdraws from social interactions that they have previously enjoyed. This could include avoiding social gatherings, spending excessive time alone, or displaying reluctance to participate in activities they previously participated in with peers.

EXPRESSIONS OF HELPLESSNESS OR HOPELESSNESS

Listen to your child’s words, or however they express themselves if they’re non- speaking, carefully. Expressions of hopelessness, helplessness, or thoughts of self-harm should always be taken seriously. Even subtle hints or jokes about self-harm or suicide should prompt immediate attention and intervention.

PERSISTENT ANXIETY OR FEAR

Anxiety disorders can manifest in children as excessive worry, fear of specific situations or objects, or constant feelings of nervousness. Watch for signs of persistent anxiety that interfere with your child’s daily functioning or cause significant distress.

SEEKING SUPPORT

If you observe any of these signs or have concerns about your child’s mental well-being, it’s crucial to seek support from mental health professionals. Early intervention and support can make a significant difference in addressing challenges and promoting your child’s overall well-being and resilience.

* It’s essential to engage in open communication with professionals and seek guidance if there are any concerns, especially if there’s an immediate life-threatening situation, where accessing 24-hour support becomes paramount. (see this article for information on who to speak to and where to go for help).