As a parent, it is your responsibility to protect the mental health of your child. The decision to get mental health care for your child can be tough. However, it can be the right step for their general well-being. Seeking the help of a good psychiatrist like Dr. Alejandra Suzuki helps your child deal with emotional distress and mental illness.
Signs That Your Child Needs a Psychiatric Evaluation
- A sudden and significant decline in their performance in school
- Sexualized behavior
- Increased anxiety and fear
- Hyperactivity
- Constant night terrors and nightmares
- Self-destructive behavior or ideation of suicide
- Aggressive behavior and angry outbursts
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Disregard for authority figures
For many parents and guardians, it might be difficult to determine when a child needs help and when they are just going through the normal stages of development. However, it is important to discuss the changes with other adults. Family members and teachers may help you determine when your child needs help. Before seeking the help of a psychiatrist, speak with your child and find out if they may be going through any mental health problems.
Reasons to Take Your Child to a Child Psychiatrist
There are a few reasons why you may need to seek the help of a child psychiatrist. If, for example, they exhibit symptoms of mental disorders such as anxiety, OCD, or manic depression, you can’t help them without professional help.
Even when your child doesn’t have any mental health problems, a psychiatrist may help them get through stressful times. They guide them to develop healthy stress management habits. Emotional distress is just as real for children as it is for adults. Even when you don’t know if your child is distressed or just acting out, getting the opinion of a psychiatrist is always a good idea. They may suggest psychotherapy and medication depending on the needs of your child. Most mental conditions can be managed. Child psychiatry can help your child lead a normal and healthy life. There is no shame in asking for help.
Preparing Your Child for the First Appointment
Your child may not always understand why they need the help of a psychiatrist. They may be confused or nervous. Talk to them throughout the entire process and let them know what to expect. Some of the most common questions that your child may have include; whether the process is painful? Whether the doctor is nice, and how the process is going to affect them. Keep the following things in mind when planning your child’s first visit:
- Write a list of all your concerns
- Prepare their mental and medical history
- Prepare a list of the medication they may be taking
The mental health of your child is just as important as their physical health. If you have any concerns about it, you should seek professional help as soon as possible. Work with an experienced child psychiatrist to help your child lead a happy and healthy life.