Children’s Mental Health
Affecting How Children Think, Act & Feel
Like adults, children and adolescents can have mental health disorders that interfere with the way they think, feel, and act. Some behavioral and emotional concerns that a child may exhibit can be quite normal and are part of growing up, and many parents can help and support their child through these difficulties.
Such difficulties can include problems at school, with friends or at home. But there are also times when a child may need or benefit from extra support and assistance.
Signs to Watch For:
The following signs, when experienced on a sustained basis, may be reason for consulting with your child’s doctor or a mental health professional:
- Frequent feelings of depression, unhappiness, or despair
- Feelings of anxiety or significant mood swings
- Frequent period of confusion or forgetfulness
- Lack of interest in family, friends, or activities he or she used to enjoy.
- Destruction of property
- Difficulty with concentration in school work and other activities
- Inability to make friends with other children
- Angry, belligerent behavior
Case Management Services
Case management services are available to families who have a child with a serious and emotional or behavioral disorder. This voluntary service is available at Nobles County Community Services. For a referral, please call Nobles County Community Services at 507-295-5213.