The price of silence is too great, and the price of neglect is unconscionable. Children of Elementary School Age - Difficulty in going to sleep or taking part in activities that are normal for the child's age or refusal to go to school on a regular basis. Frequent, unexplainable temper tantrums. A steady and noticeable decline in school performance. Often accompanied by poor appetite, difficulty in sleeping, or thoughts of death.
Parents usually are the first to recognize that a child has a problem.
If a child exhibits any of the above warning signs, talk with the child's regular doctor. If he or she shares your concerns, ask for a referral to a psychiatrist or other mental health professional. A psychological assessment may be needed to determine how best to help the child. Get a second opinion. Not all pediatricians or family physicians may recognize symptoms of mental illnesses.