Young people are especially at risk of depression, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, phobias, and substance abuse. Some mental illnesses, such as depression, can occur in young children too young to effectively communicate their pain. Another form of mental illness that appears in childhood or adolescence are severe emotional disorders or behavior disorders. As many as one in five Missouri children may have an emotional or behavior disorder, ranging from barely noticeable to disruptive to their education, development, and family life. The causes of mental illness are varied, but most are caused by imbalances in the brain's chemistry, by a head injury, or by emotional trauma.
Some mental illnesses are more prevalent in some families, suggesting a hereditary link.
Mental illnesses are not a sign of weak character, immorality, or a punishment for sins. Warning Signs Parents and educators are the most likely to detect a mental illness or emotional disorder because of their constant contact with a child. The first step is to determine what is causing a youngster's unusual behavior. There are many possible causes, including physical problems. If the cause is determined to be a mental illness or disorder, treatment may range from counseling to medication.