When a parent has a concern about their child’s social and emotional wellbeing it is not uncommon for them to hear comments like, “wait and see,” “they will grow out of it.” Or simply told that children are resilient and will manage it on their own. While these views are still quite commonly expressed, we now also have data that suggests addressing challenges early through avenues such as Play Therapy can lead to enhancing present and future social and emotional outcomes.
In recent years, 2000 and 2014 several Australian studies have been completed specifically exploring the mental health needs of children and adolescents. The findings show us that mental health can be a real concern for children having long lasting impacts. “It’s estimated that around one in seven Australian kids experience mental health issues and about half of all serious mental health issues in adulthood begin before the age of 14.” (Beyond Blue)
Considering this, the question often arises, “how do we know when something is wrong? How do we know when we need to seek help?”
It is very unlikely your child will ever say, “I’m struggling, and I need to see a counsellor or play therapist.” When a child struggles, they do not always do it in the same way as an adult and they may not be able to give voice to what is wrong. Instead, children may communicate mental health challenges through body symptoms, play and changes in their behaviour. These are three forms of communication that can feel very unclear to the best of us. The best way to decipher if your child is experiencing a significant challenge is by using observation and your gut instinct.
If you have concerns about your child’s wellbeing, consider whether you have noticed any of the following:
- significant changes in behaviour and personality from what you are used to (could be more outgoing or more withdrawn)
- More frequent or intense outbursts and extended time required recovering from these
- Increases in aggressive behaviours
- Changes in friendships and relationships
- ongoing sleep disturbances
- Unexplained physical symptoms such as sore tummies or headaches
- not wanting to do things they usually like such as going out or doing a favourite dance class
- self-harm or neglecting themselves
If you have noticed any of these changes it can be good to dig a little deeper. Are these changes beginning to impact the child’s ability to:
- Fully engage in and enjoy practical and social aspects of life
- Take full advantage of opportunities that meet their priorities
If left unaddressed Mental Health difficulties experienced by children can show up in more extreme behaviours and changes. They can begin to feel bigger and begin affecting more aspects of their lives. When recognising and responding to children’s mental health issues, “the earlier the better!”
There are developmentally appropriate options for providing support to your child. Interventions such as Play Therapy are evidence based to work with children as young as 2 years old and focus on children 2-10. Depending on the challenge faced by your child Play Therapy can continue to be an option for children in an older age bracket. For more information on Play Therapy and its effectiveness on childhood social and emotional challenges please visit the play therapy section on our website.
As a parent, you are your child’s best guide and advocate. If you have any concerns or feel there may be something they are struggling with contact The Play Therapy Hub for a no obligation free chat to talk about your concerns and whether Play Therapy could help. Mental health concerns affect many of our children. With the right help children can be supported to integrate challenging experiences and become more regulated and ready to take on the world with choice and passion.
Do not hesitate to get in touch with us via our contact page. We are always happy to provide further information to anyone who has an interest in play therapy.
