When to Seek Professional Help for Your Child’s Mental Health
Written by Hannah Ewert, Psy.D — Child Psychologist at Child Psychology Center, a group psychology practice with offices in North San Diego and Sacramento & virtual therapy services statewide in CA
As a parent or caregiver, it’s natural to worry about your child’s well-being. All children face challenges, but sometimes their struggles may need extra support. Knowing when to seek professional help can make a big difference.
Signs Your Child May Need Support
1. Sudden Changes in Behavior
If your child becomes withdrawn, loses interest in favorite activities, or changes eating or sleeping habits, they may be struggling. A once talkative and social child might suddenly prefer isolation. A teen who loved sports may quit abruptly, avoiding teammates and practices. These shifts can signal emotional distress.
2. Persistent Sadness or Irritability
It’s normal for children to feel sad or moody at times, but if sadness, hopelessness, or irritability lasts more than two weeks, it may be a sign of something more. A child who once loved to play outside may stop engaging in activities they used to enjoy. Teens may struggle with motivation, expressing that they feel "empty" or "numb." If these emotions persist, professional support can help them navigate their feelings.
3. Excessive Worry or Fear
Some anxiety is normal, but constant worry or panic can interfere with daily life. A child who refuses to sleep alone or has frequent stomachaches before school may be struggling with anxiety. A teen who avoids social situations due to overwhelming fear might need guidance to manage their emotions.
4. Extreme Outbursts or Aggression
While occasional frustration is part of growing up, frequent meltdowns, anger, or aggression toward others can indicate difficulty with emotional regulation. A child who has intense tantrums that are difficult to calm or a teen who lashes out at family and peers may need additional support in managing emotions.
5. Difficulty in School
A sudden drop in grades, trouble focusing, or behavioral issues in school can signal emotional distress. A child who once enjoyed learning may suddenly refuse to do homework, and a teenager who was engaged in school activities may lose interest altogether. If school performance changes drastically, it could be linked to emotional challenges that need attention.
6. Avoiding Social Situations
Some children are naturally shy, but if a child actively avoids interactions, struggles to make friends, or experiences intense fear in social settings, it may be a sign of social anxiety. A child who prefers to play alone or a teen who avoids invitations and isolates themselves may benefit from professional support.
7. Thoughts of Self-Harm or Suicide
If your child talks about harming themselves, feeling hopeless, or not wanting to be here, take it seriously. Even if they don’t fully understand the weight of their words, these expressions indicate deep distress. Seeking immediate professional help is crucial.
If you fear your child is in need of immediate professional help, here are resources we recommend:
📱 Crisis Text Line
Text 741741 from anywhere in the U.S. to connect with a trained crisis counselor, 24/7.📞 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988)
Call or text 988 for free, confidential support for anyone in emotional distress or suicidal crisis—available 24/7.👂 Teen Line
Text “TEEN” to 839863 or call (800) 852-8336 from 6–10 PM PT to talk with trained teen listeners, supervised by mental health professionals.🌐 Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth)
Call (866) 488-7386, text “START” to 678678, or chat at thetrevorproject.org for 24/7 support for LGBTQ+ young people.📞 NAMI Helpline
Call (800) 950-NAMI (6264) or text “HelpLine” to 62640 for information, referrals, and support Monday–Friday, 10 AM–10 PM ET.Autism Response Team (Autism Speaks)
📞 Call: 1-888-288-4762
Steps You Can Take to Help Your Child
1. Talk to Your Child
Create a safe space for open conversation. Ask how they’re feeling and listen without judgment. Even if they aren’t ready to talk, let them know you’re there for them.
2. Check in with Teachers or Counselors
School staff often notice changes in behavior before parents do. They can provide insight into how your child is coping socially and academically.
3. Schedule an Evaluation
A pediatrician, psychologist, or therapist can assess your child’s emotional well-being and recommend the best course of action.
4. Consider Therapy
Therapy can help children develop coping skills and process their emotions. Play therapy can be beneficial for younger children, while cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps older children and teens manage anxiety and negative thoughts. Family therapy can also strengthen relationships and create a more supportive home environment.
5. Provide Support at Home
A structured routine, open communication, and healthy habits can create a supportive environment. Encourage outdoor play, mindfulness activities, and limit screen time to help with emotional regulation.
Why Early Support Matters
Getting help early can prevent bigger struggles later. It also teaches children lifelong coping skills.
Seeking support is not a sign of failure—it’s an act of care and strength.
Our Services:
Child Psychology Center offers neuro-affirming, culturally competent, evidence-based therapy for children (ages 0+), teens and caregivers. We offer virtual therapy for people throughout all of California, and we offer in-person therapy in Carlsbad, CA and in Sacramento, CA. Our services are available in both English and Mandarin. Our licensed psychologists offer psychological assessments. While our therapists specialize in treating children, we also treat adults. We specialize in treating anxiety, child behavioral problems, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), ADHD, autism, and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We offer parent coaching and consultation. We would love to support you along your journey. Reach out for a free 15-minute consultation today!
