4 Signs Your Child May Need Counseling

Unlike an adult, a child is not always able to express their feelings. So when a child is stressed out during exams, they may not turn to their parents for emotional support. Similarly, if they are being bullied at school, they may continue to live in fear without telling anyone.

Many parents don’t know how to get help for their child and sometimes don’t always fully understand what is going on. You don’t have to wait for things to become unbearable before reaching out for help. 

Counseling can help to address a number of concerns, regardless of age. 

Here are four signs that you child may benefit from counseling:

  1. Aggression
    Aggressive behavior is one of the early signs that your child is experiencing a behavioral health concern. Becoming irritable, throwing tantrums or misbehaving with you and others particularly in “physical ways” are signs that something is going on. Working with a trained child therapist can help.
  2. Focusing on Morbid Topics
    Children generally have an inquisitive mind and they tend to explore answers to unexplained things. This can include subjects, such as death, resurrection, or paranormal activities. While it is normal for your child to ask you questions about death or diseases, fixation is worth exploring with a counselor.
  3. Frequent Sadness
    Some children may tend to dwell on depressive thoughts. They begin to feel sad and aren’t interested in doing things they used to like doing. If you notice a change in your child’s mood as well as changes in their appetite and sleep patterns it is time to look further. A skilled child counselor can help you get to the root of what is going on. 
  4. Excessive Worry

Does your child exhibit a particular behavior pattern in certain situations that indicate they may worry? Are they afraid to go to bed at night? Do they refuse to go to school? Do they make comments about you being safe, or what might happen to them in the future? If you answered yes to any of these questions, your child’s thoughts may be filled with worry. Anxiety is treatable, therapy can help. 

If any of the above sound familiar, you aren’t alone. Carolina Counseling Services in Sanford contracts with skilled, licensed therapists who can help. Call today to schedule your first appointment. Online counseling sessions are available!

 

Related Articles: