One In Six US Kids Now Has A Mental Illness. Here Are The Signs

A recent analysis showed that a whopping one in six US children now has a mental illness, the highest figure ever recorded. And it’s not just down to improved diagnostics. While there are more diseases listed in the DSM-5 than ever before, careful research shows that the trends we’re witnessing today are part of a broader deterioration in the health of kids under the age of 18. 

As a parent, these trends can be worrying. We don’t want our kids to get caught up in it and have to deal with a life of mental health problems. Unfortunately, though, these days they are difficult to ignore. 

North Kansas City Schools, an organization committed to supporting kids, is doing what it can to provide some relief. It is pushing for increased mental health services for young people so they can develop into healthy, positive, and productive members of society.

The problems are real, though, the organization says. Kids are experiencing depression, bullying, anxiety, and substance abuse at an alarming rate.

So what are the signs that parents should be on the lookout for in their children that might indicate emerging mental health problems?

Signs of Mental Illness In Kids

Regularly Getting Involved In Fights

If your kids regularly get involved in fights, it could be a sign of mental health issues. However, if they are on the receiving end of aggression, they are at higher risk of PTSD, depression, and other symptoms associated with physical bullying. If they are actively trying to attack other children, then it might indicate a psychiatric problem that needs addressing as soon as possible.

Repeated Use Of Substances

No child should be consuming alcohol or drugs, but it happens regularly, particularly during the teenage years. Kids begin experimenting and find themselves wrapped up in situations they don’t want to be in.

However, if a child regularly uses these substances, it could indicate a mental health issue. They may be trying to escape the pain they feel by putting alcohol or drugs in their body.

Not Eating

Not eating is another common sign of a mental health issue. Children will sometimes reject food to make themselves feel more powerful. They may also do it if they have body image issues or want to harm themselves. 

Overwhelming Fears Without An External Cause

It’s normal for children to feel fearful when confronted with a real threat to their health and wellbeing. However, if you notice that they seem to get scared for no reason, it might be a symptom of a psychiatric disorder. Worried parents should go to a psychiatrist for a proper evaluation. 

Difficulty Concentrating

Trouble focusing on a particular task is another common sign of mental health issues. If you notice that your child seems to be constantly dozing off or daydreaming when they should be learning, then they may have ADHD. Again, you’ll need to take them to a specialist to confirm this. 

Drastic Changes In Personality Signifies Mental Illness In Kids

Lastly, you may notice drastic changes in your child’s personality. If this happens, it could indicate a severe psychiatric episode.

How to Help Your Child Cope With Mental Illness

If your child has a mental illness, you can help them cope. You can get through it together, and it’s best to involve your family in the process. Here are some of the ways you can help them cope:

• Listen to what your child is telling you, and don’t try to convince them of anything else.
• Remind them that you’re on a team as you get through the hard times
• Remember that you might need outside help for them
• Ask your child what they need to feel safer
• Reassure them that you’re not going anywhere
• Set boundaries