School teaches children basic academics and helps them develop social skills that will serve them well in the world outside of school. However, attending school can have its own challenges to your child’s mental health. While school-related mental health problems often affect adolescents, they can also impact younger children in some cases. There are many different types of school-related mental health concerns that your child may face. Some of the most common types of school-related mental health concerns include:
Bullying
Children who are bullied at school tend to experience higher levels of depression, anxiety, loneliness, and fear than children who aren’t bullied. Bullying also tends to have a negative impact on academic achievement and self-esteem. Bullying can take place in the classroom, on the playground, or over electronic devices such as cell phones and computers. Some children who are bullied have physical symptoms of being upset, including nausea and stomach aches. If your child is experiencing bullying at school, it is important to have your child work with a mental health professional that helps them navigate the difficulties of dealing with a bully.
Low Academic Achievement
Schools tend to put a lot of pressure on children to achieve academic success, however, not all students can meet these expectations. Children who are struggling academically may lose interest in school and fall behind their peers. Sometimes this can be due to a learning disorder or an undiagnosed mental health disorder. Having your child speak with a mental health professional can help you determine the cause of your child’s struggles.
Self-Esteem Problems
Low self-esteem is complex and often associated with many factors such as challenging experiences with peers, academic struggles, medical challenges, even negative experiences on social media platforms. Mental health professionals can help your child work through these types of issues and provide them with tools to improve their self-esteem.
Did You Know?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as many as 1 in 3 high school students had experienced persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in 2019. This was a 40% increase since 2009.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are signs my child or teen might be struggling?
While some children will come to their parents for help with their mental health, others may not know how to ask for help. Therefore, here are some signs that your child might be struggling with their mental health:
- Frequent arguments with their peers
- Frequently reports feeling sick when it’s time to go to school
- Frequently reports not wanting to go to school
- Difficulty sleeping or frequently waking during the night
- Mood changes such as feelings of sadness, anger, or irritability
- Sudden bedwetting
- Separation anxiety or clinginess
- A sudden increase or decrease in appetite
- Disruptive or destructive behavior
- Social isolation
If you suspect that your child is struggling with their mental health, schedule a consultation with Dr. Krauss and our team at Transitions Counseling in Glendale, North Phoenix, South Mountain, or Chandler. Our team is also available for telehealth appointments.
How are school-related mental health issues diagnosed?
At Transitions Counseling, we diagnose school-related mental health issues by performing a formal assessment. During this evaluation, you and your child will be asked about their symptoms, medical history, and any other factors that could affect their mental health. In some cases, we may also ask for your permission to interview your child’s teachers briefly to obtain more information about your child’s behavior at school.
How are school-related mental health issues treated at Transitions Counseling?
At Transitions Counseling, we use integrative programs to guide your child through their own personal recovery with respect and compassion. Our practice uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and interventions that address the whole person. During your child’s treatment, they may be encouraged to participate in one or more of the following:
- DBT Skills Training
- EMDR Sessions
- Expressive Arts Therapy
- Family Groups & Workshops
- Group Counseling
- Meditation & Mindfulness Exercises
- Nutritional Assessment & Coaching
- Yoga Practice & Yoga Therapy
If you believe your child is experiencing school-related mental health issues, our team at Transitions Counseling in Glendale, North Phoenix, South Mountain, or Chandler would love to help them get back on their feet with an integrative depression treatment program that addresses the whole person. Give us a call for more information!
