Back to school 2019 is already underway, and for many students– especially those with mental health issues– returning to the classroom can cause considerable anxiety. Addressing mental health in schools increases the likelihood that students will succeed academically and socially. In order to do that, though, it’s necessary to recognize the signs of mental health concerns in the first place. If you suspect your child is struggling, here are some signs of social anxiety and other common mental health disorders to be on the lookout for.
Potential Social Anxiety Symptoms: Intense Emotions
A child with a mental illness may experience levels of fear that are disproportionate to the severity of the perceived threat. Extreme fear of being judged or criticized by others, for instance, is one of the signs of social anxiety. Students may also have over-the-top fears about achieving less-than-perfect grades. Feelings of anxiety are often accompanied by symptoms such as rapid heartbeat and breathing.
Severe Mood Swings and Behavior Changes
Children may have seemingly inexplicable changes in mood and behavior. A child who was once happy and outgoing may become sad and withdrawn, avoiding social interactions and activities they once enjoyed. Sudden mood swings can lead to problems with school and relationships. In addition, children/teens may exhibit abrupt changes in behavior, such as becoming aggressive or engaging in self-destructive behaviors, such as using drugs or self-harming.
Physical Symptoms of Social Anxiety
For children, signs of social anxiety, depression, and other concerns may not always manifest the same way they do in adults. Children are especially likely to have physical symptoms, such as stomachaches and headaches. Unexplained physical symptoms can lead to frequent absences from school, making it even harder for children to succeed in the classroom.
Difficulty Staying Focused
If back to school 2019 has left your child consistently struggling to follow directions or stay on task, it may indicate a mental health issue. Children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and other mental health conditions may have difficulty concentrating in class, which can lead to poor grades and low self-esteem.
Unexplained Weight Loss
A child with an eating disorder may resort to vomiting or using laxatives after eating or skip meals altogether, appearing to have no appetite.
Comprehensive Mental Health Treatment
Lake Behavioral Hospital provides comprehensive care for overcoming social anxiety and other mental health problems. Our well-rounded approach includes inpatient mental services, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient therapy.