3 Possible Signs of a Child in Mental Health Distress
Here at HOPE we are saddened by the recent news of another tragedy striking yet another American school. How are we as parents suppose to feel safe sending our kids to school? Fear and sadness overwhelms us when we hear, “a gunman entered a Florida high school and fired a military-style assault weapon, killing 17 people” on the news. Unfortunately there are not enough mental health providers on school campuses working through the issues with students before tragedies hit. Our hearts, prayers and HOPE goes out to the families who suffered a loss from this tragedy.
Important statistics related to mental health in U.S. public schools today:
As parents, a community, and a Nation it’s time for us to wake up and start supporting mental health for our children. Stop stigmatizing. Stop shaming those who seek help. Stop labeling and judging. We all need support, encouragement and help throughout life. We can prevent crisis like these if we provide initial therapeutic treatment early. Parents are the ones to seek help for kids. The following can be 3 indicators that a child is going through distress and may need help:
If your child presents one or more warning signs, call your pediatrician. Also, here at HOPE we are eager to help any child in distress. We offer Play therapy, talk therapy and activity therapy for all ages.
Sincerely,
Dr. Brooke West
Important statistics related to mental health in U.S. public schools today:
- 1 school psychologist for every 1,381 students (far more than the recommended 1 for every 500-700)
- 1 school counselor for every 482 students (more than the recommended 1 for 250 students)
- 1 in 5 children have a diagnosable emotional, behavioral, or mental health disorder
- 1 in 10 children have a mental health challenge severe enough to impair function at home, school, or community
As parents, a community, and a Nation it’s time for us to wake up and start supporting mental health for our children. Stop stigmatizing. Stop shaming those who seek help. Stop labeling and judging. We all need support, encouragement and help throughout life. We can prevent crisis like these if we provide initial therapeutic treatment early. Parents are the ones to seek help for kids. The following can be 3 indicators that a child is going through distress and may need help:
- a change in appetite- eating more or less than usual
- a change in sleep
- mood changes- such as inability to emotionally respond and reflect, withdrawal or isolation and social inhibition
If your child presents one or more warning signs, call your pediatrician. Also, here at HOPE we are eager to help any child in distress. We offer Play therapy, talk therapy and activity therapy for all ages. Sincerely,
Dr. Brooke West
We are currently taking new clients. Please call or email to setup an appointment: hopecentertexas@yahoo.com 214-674-3091
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