Warning signs in the detection of mental disorders in childhood and adolescence

Having good mental health in childhood and adolescence means achieving the indicators of physical and emotional development, as well as learning social skills and how to cope with problems that may arise.

Mental disorders at this early age are described as serious changes in their usual way of learning, behaving, or handling emotions, which causes distress and problems in daily activities and the social environment (family, school, and friends).

The symptoms of mental disorders change over time as children grow, and can include difficulties in how they behave (play, learn, speak) and relate to others, or how they manage their emotions. Symptoms usually begin in early childhood, although some disorders appear during adolescence.

Without early diagnosis and treatment, children and young people with mental disorders may experience difficulties at home, at school, and in their social environments. These problems can also interfere with their healthy development and may persist into adulthood.

Mental health disorders in childhood and adolescence can be treated and managed. Many treatment options exist, based on the best and most up-to-date scientific evidence, so families and specialists should work closely together.

The signs of mental disorder in childhood and adolescence vary depending on the individual and the problem. These are some of the most common warning signs for its detection:

• Mood changes. Pay attention to feelings of sadness and withdrawal (isolation) that last for at least two weeks, or other noticeable mood changes that cause problems in relationships at home, at school, or in social relationships.
• Excessive worries. Pay attention to feelings of overwhelming fear for no apparent reason, sometimes accompanied by increased heart or breathing rate, or intense fears that may interfere with daily activities.
• Behavioral changes. These include drastic changes in behavior or personality, as well as dangerous or out-of-control behavior. Other warning signs include frequent arguments, negativistic-defiant behavior with family members and staff, and frequent involvement in fights (verbal or physical aggression).
• Difficulty concentrating. Pay attention to signs of difficulty concentrating (easily distracted, unable to maintain attention on monotonous tasks), staying still (constantly getting up from the chair, acting as if driven by a motor), or regulating oneself (acting impulsively, rushing). These signs can lead to poor performance in school.
• Unexplained weight loss. Progressive decrease in food intake, excessive exercise, self-induced vomiting, and the use of laxatives may indicate an eating disorder.
• Physical symptoms. In childhood, mental health disorders may present with headaches and stomach aches instead of sadness or anxiety, as is the case in adults.
• Physical harm. Sometimes, a mental health disorder leads to self-inflicted injuries, also called self-harm. This means deliberately hurting oneself, for example, by cutting or burning oneself. Suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts may also occur.
• Substance abuse and misuse of new technologies (social media, internet, games, mobile phones, etc.) . In some cases, drug or alcohol use may occur as a way to cope with their feelings. The misuse of new technologies can reflect a desire to isolate oneself from an emotional problem.