Does your child need mental health help? 7 signs you shouldn't ignore

The journey through childhood and adolescence can be a difficult one, full of physical and emotional twists and turns. It's normal for young people to experience shifts in behavior during these years. But sometimes, these changes can signal a mental health issue.

Teens and kids experience many of the same mental health issues adults do, including anxiety, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and bipolar disorder. However, they may not have the same warning signs as adults, and sometimes the symptoms aren’t as obvious, either.

Since young people often struggle to talk about their feelings, parents and caregivers should watch for even subtle changes. If you suspect an issue, reach out to a physician, mental health professional, or other healthcare provider (HCP) as soon as you can. They can help diagnose a mental health condition, determine its severity, and get needed treatment for your child.

These seven warning signs can point to a number of different mental health issues and should not be ignored.