Child & Adolescent Mental Health

Like adults, young people may have mental health disorders that interfere with the way they think, feel, and act. When untreated, these disorders can lead to school failure, family conflicts, drug abuse, violence, and suicide. It is estimated that at least one in five children and adolescents have a mental health disorder. Mental illness in youth may be caused by biology and the environment in which they live. Biological causes include genetics, chemical imbalances, and head injury. Environmental factors include exposure to violence, being the victim of abuse, and the loss of important people through death or divorce. 

Warning Signs for Mental Health Disorders in Youth 

• Declining performance in school.
• Losing interest in things once enjoyed.
• Unexplained changes in sleeping and eating.
• Avoiding friends or family; wanting to be alone.
• Feeling sad and hopeless for no reason.
• Feeling very angry most of the time.
• Feeling anxious or worried often.
• Having unexplained fears.
• Experiencing suicidal thoughts.

For mental health treatment for children, families can: 

• Discuss concerns with child’s teacher, school counselor, and/or pastoral minister.
• Ask family physician for a referral to a mental health professional. 
• Ask questions about treatment and services. 
• Network with other families and community organizations.