Mental Health and Young Children

Mental Health Month was established in 1949 to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Today, doctors and researchers have gained knowledge of the many layers of mental illness conditions and have developed different methods to help those suffering. Many of the conditions will not improve without the proper channel of help from a medical professional and with the help of family and friends.

The pandemic has taken a toll on people of all ages, but one age group of concern is young children. Many children are developing mental health conditions, and since they are young, it may be difficult for them to express their feelings. Knowing the symptoms of mental health conditions will help us to identify the issue(s) and seek out the right help:

• Changes in school performance
• Excessive worry or anxiety, for instance fighting to avoid bed or school
• Hyperactive behavior
• Frequent nightmares
• Frequent disobedience or aggression
• Frequent temper tantrums

(Source)

The month of May highlights mental health and the importance of understanding signs, symptoms, and resources to help those struggling, but it is vital to recognize these conditions every day of the year in hopes that we can help someone near to us or get the help we ourselves may need.

CalCPA Health medical subscribers have access to understanding mental health and what resources are available to them (Visit https://www.anthem.com/ca/mental-health). Another resource CalCPA Health medical members have access to is LiveHealth Online which offers psychology and psychiatrist visits online. 

If you or someone you know needs help now, you should call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or call 911.