Parents of young children often say that it can be difficult to decide if what their child is experiencing warrants treatment. They may be wondering if this is a “bump in the road” or something more.
Treatment may be appropriate if your child experiences:
- Lack of self-confidence or self-esteem
- Excessive worry about the future
- Fears or phobias
- Excessive reassurance-seeking
- Reluctance or fearfulness when separating from you, sleeping independently, being in new situations, or socializing with new people
- Repetitive behaviors
- Difficulties with transitions
- Frequent negative statements
- Excessive tantrums or emotional outbursts
- Challenges following directions
- Difficulties hearing “no”
- Toileting concerns
Psychologists use methods that not only treat emotional and behavioral challenges but prevent them. Whether your child needs help navigating typical, age-appropriate challenges or is managing more serious mental health difficulties, psychologists can provide helpful services that can make life healthier and more meaningful for your child and family.
Further, waiting to treat concerns typically results in longer, more intensive treatment. When concerns are left untreated, children may face the compounding challenges that come with rehearsing the same difficulties. Because the problem can seem unsolvable or out of the child and family’s control, it can also lead to decreased confidence and low self-esteem.
By Dr. Rachel LaFleur, Staff Psychologist, Washington Anxiety Center of Capitol Hill
"My Kid's Mental Health"- A blog by a clinical psychologist 