Children today face many unique challenges. Bullying, academic pressure, social stress and other common problems can be made worse by underlying conditions like anxiety and depression. Emotionally troubled children are at an increased risk for substance abuse, suicide and other serious health problems. Learning to recognize the signs of a troubled child allows caregivers to intervene sooner for a more positive outcome.
Mood Swings
As most parents and teachers know, children, adolescents and teens are all prone to occasional behavioral outbursts and breakdowns. In some instances, however, mood swings may signal a more serious mental health condition like bipolar disorder or depression. Mood disorders are conditions that affect a person's emotional well-being and self-esteem. According to Children's Hospital, low energy, difficulty concentrating, excessive guilt and sadness and loss of interest in hobbies are common signs of mood disorders in kids.
Problems in School
Academic problems can sometimes stem from more serious underlying issues like learning disorders or mental health conditions. Declining grades and a general disinterest in academic performance are common among troubled children and teens. For kids, school is about more than just academic learning--it is a place to acquire social skills, exhibit individualism and discover interests and talents. Other school-related problems that may occur in a trouble child include bullying, repeated conflicts with friends and recurring disciplinary consequences such as detention or expulsion.
Suicidal Behavior
Suicide is a potential outcome of untreated mental and emotional disorders in kids and teens. According to Merck.com, 28 percent of high school students are plagued by suicidal thoughts, while over 8 percent have actually attempted suicide. Suicide is more common in teens and young adults but may occur in school-age children as well. Warning signs include poor impulse control, self-harm or violence, giving away of valuable possessions and a preoccupation with death.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse and addiction is a major threat to the health and well-being of children. While it can be harmful in adults, substance abuse is even more likely to cause problems like addiction in underage users whose brains have not fully developed. Troubled children may be more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol as way to self-medicate or escape their problems. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, factors such as lack of parental supervision, poverty, drug availability and early aggressive behavior increase the risk for drug abuse in kids and teens. Children with two or more of these risk factors may be even more likely to engage in substance abuse and require close supervision to prevent problems with drugs and alcohol.
