Mental Health Support for Children: How and When to Seek Help
Every parent wants their child to thrive.
Emotions and behaviors can play a critical role in the way children live and interact with others and can influence their ability to thrive. It is important to notice the signs that your child might be struggling with mental health.
According to the World Health Organization “globally, it is estimated that 1 in 7 (14%) 10–19-year-olds experience mental health conditions, yet these remain largely unrecognized and untreated”. Behavior might look different, especially according to the age or developmental stage of your child. According to the Mayo Clinic, here are some signs to watch for:
Sadness or depressed mood that lasts two or more weeks
Changes in being social/playing or staying away from others
Hurting oneself or talking about hurting oneself
Talking about death or suicide
Having outbursts or being very moody, irritable, or testy
Out-of-control behavior that can be harmful (i.e. a tantrum in which a young child hurts himself or destructive/reckless behavior in an older child)
Big changes in mood, behavior, or personality (the child is not acting like they usually do)
Changes in eating habits
Loss of weight
Trouble sleeping
Getting headaches or stomachaches often
Trouble concentrating
Doing poorly in school (due to any number of reasons)
Not going to school/asking to stay home from school
This list is not exhaustive. Your child may react differently depending on their age and/or developmental stage. If you feel there is a need for your child to connect with support due to changes you’ve noticed from this list or otherwise, you should seek help.
Here are a few different ways you can connect your child with mental health resources:
Talk to your child’s pediatrician regarding concerns. They will be able to provide a referral as necessary for additional services.
Reach out to your child’s school. The school may have a guidance counselor, social service department, and/or other mental health services for your child.
Check your insurance plan. Your plan may provide coverage for therapy/counseling for your child.
Review online resources, such as the Child Mind Institute’s Family Resource Center or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
If you are seeking care for your child through your insurance plan, there are some important things to consider. Families should review their insurance policy carefully. Additionally, some mental health providers may offer sliding-scale fees or financial assistance programs for families without insurance or with limited coverage.
Here are some items to consider for your health insurance coverage for mental health:
Check Your Insurance Provider's Website: Many companies provide online resources, provider search tools, and information. Your plan may also offer access to virtual providers.
Inquire About Provider Networks: Using in-network providers can help you maximize your coverage and minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Check Preauthorization Requirements: If you're considering specific mental health services, such as intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) or residential treatment programs, inquire about any preauthorization or prior approval requirements.
Understand Your Cost-sharing Responsibilities: Clarify your cost-sharing responsibilities, including deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance for mental health services. Ask your insurance provider to explain how these costs are calculated and whether there are any limits on mental health coverage.
Keep Records: Keep records of your conversations with your insurance provider.
If you would like to speak to a Mental Health Professional regarding resources for your child or if you have questions about healthcare coverage, you can contact your Care Navigator.
If you feel that there is an immediate threat that your child might harm themself or others, seek immediate help by calling or texting the National Crisis hotline at 988.