Mental Health Problems in Adults and Children When and how to get help

  by Dina Alkhoury, PsyD

Mental health includes multiple aspects of our wellbeing; it affects our thinking, our behavior and how we feel. When your mental health is affected, that could mean you may be experiencing problems emotionally, psychologically or socially. Struggles with mental health are common and can occur across race, culture, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, socioeconomic background, age and other identity. The American Psychiatric Association reports that in any given year, about 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. will experience some form of mental illness. Struggles with our mental health can be triggered by a multitude of major life changes or transitions, such as a divorce or separation, loss of family member or friend, bullying or conflicts with peers, or a traumatic life experience. Mental illness is treatable, and help is available. Mental health services can include individual therapy, family therapy, group counseling, parenting classes and couples therapy. 
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In adults, some signs of mental health challenges or illness can include changes in eating or sleeping, isolating from friends or family, loss of interest or care in things that were previously important, little or no energy, feelings of helplessness or hopelessness, substance use, confusion or forgetfulness, excessive worry or fear, irritability, mood swings, racing thoughts, and thoughts of harming or hurting self or others. 

In children, it is oftentimes difficult to determine if they are struggling with their mental health, or if what they are experiencing is part of a normal developmental stage. Some signs of mental health challenges or illness for children and teens can include – changes in eating or sleeping, not wanting to go to school or excessively late, isolating themselves, conflicts with friends or siblings, difficulty managing or coping with their feelings, seeming low or down, unexplained cuts or burns on their body, hearing voices or seeing things, substance use (smoking/vaping, drinking or doing drugs), cutting school, or fear or worry without reason.
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​If you notice any of these signs, or any drastic changes in a loved one’s behavior or personality, it may be time to reach out for support. If you or someone you know have thoughts of hurting themselves or others, call 911 or your local emergency provider.

https://notalone.nami.org

Accessing mental health services can be a daunting task. If you are ready to receive mental health services for yourself, for your child or someone you know, there are options available. Consider calling 211, your doctor, school counselor, religious center or your health insurance for mental health referrals. You may also consider calling the National Suicide Prevention Hotline 800-273-8255 or text 741741 for free 24/7 crisis support. Ask your friends or people in your community for referrals as well. Taking the first step to accessing mental health services is a courageous one, trained professionals are available to help. Reaching out can save lives - reach out today.