Mental health has featured a lot in the news lately and more people than ever seem to be suffering from some sort of psychological or emotional issue, resulting in depression or anxiety. Alarmingly, even children are feeling the effects of this pressure.  Mental health problems don’t discriminate between age groups. Two percent of children are deemed to be suffering from clinical depression!  Many more teachers are finding children in their classes are suffering, and many going undiagnosed, Some of those children are just four years old. The causes of their problems are as varied as they are with adults: home life, school, friends, family history,etc.

Childhood mental health problems can be difficult to diagnose in children as often times it will be explained away as shyness, and something they’ll grow out of. Childhood anxieties can be a sign that your child may be susceptible to depression in the future.  So if they are avoiding social gatherings (like other childrens’ parties), if they find it hard to speak up and answer questions at school, or if they tell you they don’t feel as good at things as other children it could be the start of a form of social anxiety.

Early intervention is the key. Setting and keeping to routines,plenty of physical exercise and openly talking about worries at home can help to combat mental health problems for children. Do consult your GP if you feel there could be cause for concern with your child. It may simply be “a phase”, but it’s best to be on the safe side.