A compassionate guide to supporting children and teens struggling with stress, sadness, or behavioral changes.
As parents, we do everything we can to protect our children—from bumps and bruises to fevers and flu.
But mental health can be harder to spot, and even harder to talk about.
Childhood and adolescence are filled with emotional ups and downs, but sometimes those changes are more than just “a phase.”
At Family Medicine Center, we believe caring for your child’s mental health is just as important as their physical well-being.
Here’s how to recognize when your child might be struggling—and how you can support them every step of the way.
😔 Look for Changes in Mood or Personality
If your normally energetic child has become withdrawn or irritable, or your easygoing teen now seems angry or anxious all the time, it may signal something deeper than a bad day.
👀 What to watch for: Sudden mood swings, prolonged sadness, excessive worry, or unexplained anger.
💡 Pro tip: Validate their emotions before offering solutions. Phrases like “That sounds really hard” can open the door to real conversations.
😴 Pay Attention to Sleep and Eating Habits
Mental health often shows up in physical ways. Changes in sleep—too much or too little—or a sudden loss of appetite can be signs your child is feeling overwhelmed.
👀 What to watch for: Trouble falling asleep, frequent nightmares, skipping meals, or overeating.
💡 Pro tip: Keep a gentle daily routine and check in during mealtimes or bedtime when your child might feel safe opening up.
🚪Notice Avoidance or Isolation
If your child suddenly avoids school, friends, or activities they used to enjoy, they might be dealing with anxiety, depression, or bullying.
👀 What to watch for: Excuses to stay home, dropping hobbies, or spending long hours alone.
💡 Pro tip: Offer shared time without pressure—quiet car rides, a walk, or a movie can make space for connection.
🤕 Watch for Physical Complaints Without a Clear Cause
Kids often express emotional distress through physical symptoms—like stomachaches, headaches, or feeling “sick” often—especially if they don’t have the words to explain what’s wrong.
👀 What to watch for: Repeated visits to the nurse, vague symptoms, or frequent absences from school.
💡 Pro tip: Don’t dismiss these concerns. Explore what’s going on emotionally as well as physically.
Keep Communication Open, Not Interrogative
Children and teens may not always know how to talk about their feelings, but they’ll notice if you’re present and calm. The goal isn’t to fix everything—it’s to be a safe place.
👀 What to watch for: Silence doesn’t always mean “fine.” Look for body language, tone, and shifts in behavior.
💡 Pro tip: Replace “What’s wrong with you?” with “I’ve noticed you’ve been quiet lately—want to talk about it?”
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Mental health is complex—but help is here.
Our counseling and pediatric behavioral services offer compassionate, evidence-based support for children, teens, and families. Whether it’s navigating grief, anxiety, behavioral challenges, or just needing someone to talk to—we’re here to walk this path with you.
👨👩👧 Book a consultation with our child mental health specialists today.