Most children experience emotional highs and lows as they develop. Often, this is part of the natural maturation process, but for some, it can be a sign of a more serious issue that requires professional assistance. Flushing Hospital Medical Center offers the following advice to help parents determine when to seek help.
Parents should understand that children go through the same struggles emotionally as adults, but because of their lack of development, they can have a hard time processing their feelings. By helping your child get through these difficult times, you can help provide them with the coping and problem-solving skills they can put to use in the future.
One of the most important ways we can help children navigate through the tough periods in their lives is to listen to them and validate their experience. Offering them support, sensitivity, and patience can go a long way in making them feel heard and make them more receptive to discussing their emotions in the future.
Sometimes, however, despite a parent’s best attempt, a child may need professional help to address a more serious issue. You should seek help if your child:
- Experiences problems in multiple areas of life, such as in school, during leisure activities, or in their relationships with family and friends
- Displays repetitive self-destructive behavior such as hair pulling of skin-picking
- Exhibits low self-esteem or lacks confidence
- Withdraws from activities that they once enjoyed
- Has a significant change in sleep habits or appetite
- Engages in negative behavior
- Talks about any kind of self-harm or suicide
Speak to your pediatrician if you believe your child may require professional help. They can refer you to a qualified mental health professional who can offer an appropriate treatment plan.
To make an appointment with a pediatrician at Flushing Hospital’s Ambulatory Care Center, please call 718-670-5486.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.