If you suspect that your child has a mental health issue it can be difficult to know the best way to help.
Some indicators can be: extended periods of sadness, low mood, feeling hopeless, low self-esteem, being tearful and/or irritable, lack of interest and motivation in anything, suppressed appetite, not wanting to be around others, intense anxiety or worry, being unable to focus of concentrate, self-harming, experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Having an open and honest relationship with your child/children is the first step in being able to tackle a mental health issue as they are more likely to open up about the subject. Encourage them to seek help but don’t force treatment on them or try to become a psychologist; ask them how you can help. Listen calmly and offer to visit your GP with them.
However, if they are feeling suicidal and showing no willingness to get better or; if you feel there is a risk of immediate danger – always call 999.
More advice guides on mental health can be found here and here.
There is more advice available from Mind www.mind.org.uk.
