What To Know…

Mental health is how people think, feel, and act. It affects how people handle stress, relate to each other, and make decisions. Mental health also affects how people look at themselves, their lives, and others in their lives.

Like adults, children and teens can have mental health disorders that interfere with the way they think, feel, and act. Without treatment, mental health disorders may lead to school failure, family conflicts, drug abuse, violence, and even suicide. Untreated mental health disorders can be very costly to families, communities, and the health care system.

There are many ways of treating mental health disorders. Medication may reduce your child’s symptoms and may be helpful, but it might not address his other needs. A child with poor mental health often deals with low self-esteem, trouble making friends, and tense family relationships.² The best and most complete treatment for most mental health disorders is a blend of methods—psychiatric and behavior therapy, a lot of support, and medication if a doctor decides your child needs it.³

What To Say…

Talk frankly with your child and ask what you can do to make things better for her. If her conduct in school is an issue, find out what she thinks may be the problem. Perhaps she needs a snack during the day or more help with her homework. Is she bored? Maybe she needs to be in a more advanced class. Or maybe she needs a helper in the classroom to keep her on task. Talk to your child’s school about her conduct. Find out what tools the school offers and how you and school staff can tailor them to fit your child’s needs.

If your child is diagnosed with a mental health disorder, let him know that it does not make him “bad” or “stupid.” His brain simply works in a unique way. Let him know that you and his doctor will do everything you can to help him be happy and healthy. Tell him he can help by talking with you about how he feels and what he is going through.