Recognising early warning signs of a possible mental health condition in children is crucial for getting the right support as soon as possible. While many children experience changes in mood and behaviour as part of growing up, persistent or extreme symptoms may indicate an underlying issue that requires professional attention.
Warning signs to look out for
Some possible indicators that your child may be struggling with their mental health include:
Persistent sadness lasting two or more weeks
Withdrawing from friends or avoiding social interactions
Self-harm behaviours or talking about hurting themselves
Talking about death or suicide
Frequent outbursts or extreme irritability
Risk-taking or out-of-control behaviour that could cause harm
Sudden or drastic changes in mood, behaviour, or personality
If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s important to take them seriously and seek professional advice.
What to do if you’re concerned about your child
If you suspect your child may have a mental health condition:
Speak to your child’s GP – describe the behaviours or symptoms that concern you.
Talk to teachers, friends, or relatives – find out if they’ve noticed changes in your child’s behaviour.
Share this information with your child’s doctor to give a full picture of what’s happening at home, at school, and socially.
Early intervention can make a big difference in treatment and recovery.
How professionals diagnose mental health conditions in children
Healthcare professionals diagnose and treat children’s mental health conditions based on symptoms, history, and impact on daily life. Your GP may recommend a referral to a specialist, such as a:
Psychiatrist
Psychologist
Clinical social worker
Psychiatric nurse
Other children’s mental health professional
A child’s evaluation may include:
Complete medical exam
Review of medical and family history
Discussion of any physical or emotional trauma
Timeline of developmental progress
Academic history and teacher feedback
Structured interviews with parents
Conversations with and observations of the child
Standardised questionnaires and assessments for both child and parents
This comprehensive approach helps professionals identify the best treatment plan, which may include therapy, family support, or medical interventions if necessary.
Why this matters for CAMHS professionals
For those working in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), raising awareness of early warning signs is vital. When parents, carers, and teachers recognise symptoms early and seek help, children are more likely to receive timely, effective treatment and support.
👉 Read the full resource from the Mayo Clinic here: Children’s Mental Health Disorders – Diagnosis and Treatment
