October is Mental Health Awareness Month and it is important to understand that many children struggle with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, AD/HD, and trauma. Research shows that many of these children don't get the treatment they need.  

One reason for this is that mental health problems can be harder to recognize in children because children can't talk about their feelings as easily as adults can. Another factor is that depression, anxiety, etc... often look different in children than in adults. For example, while depressed adults are usually sad and have low energy, depressed kids are more likely to be irritable or angry. What kids are feeling on the inside comes out most clearly in their behavior. Parents, teachers and others in close contact with kids have to pay close attention to how kids are acting and recognize red flags such as unusual behavior, new problems at school, or a change in friends. Parents know their kids best and should never ignore that nagging feeling that something isn't right with their child.  

The good news is that most mental health issues are very treatable and there are a number of resources available, including counseling, medication and parent support. If you worry that a child close to you really isn't doing well, reach out for help by contacting a mental health professional or doctor today.

Wynne Shaw
www.wynneshawcounseling.com