You know your child best, but sometimes, it’s hard to tell if what they’re feeling is just a tough day… or something more. Kids experience stress and emotional challenges just like adults, but they don’t always have the words to explain what’s going on. However, if you know the signs to look for, you can be their best advocate.
If you’ve been wondering whether your child might need counseling or therapy, you’re not alone, and there’s support available. At McHur Care, we work alongside families to give you and your child the support you need to overcome mental health challenges.
So how can you tell the difference between a rough patch and a deeper concern? Here are five signs your child may need mental health support.
1. Big Emotions That Don’t Go Away
It’s normal for kids to feel sad, angry, or worried now and then. That's a part of the human experience, even as adults. But when these emotions are intense, frequent, and last for weeks, it could be a sign your child is struggling with something deeper.
Look for behaviors like:
- Frequent crying or emotional outbursts
- Persistent worry or fear
- Intense anger that disrupts daily life
These emotional shifts may indicate underlying anxiety, depression, or other challenges that can improve with the right support.
2. Withdrawing From People or Activities
If your child suddenly loses interest in activities they used to love, avoids friends, or isolates themselves at home, this could be a warning sign.
You might notice:
- Skipping social events or school
- Pulling away from family
- Lack of motivation or low energy
Withdrawal can be a child’s way of expressing that something feels overwhelming—even if they’re not saying it out loud.
3. Changes in Sleep, Appetite, or Routine
Mental health often shows up in physical ways. Watch for sudden changes in your child’s routines, including:
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Changes in appetite (eating more or less than usual)
- Frequent headaches or stomachaches without a medical cause
These symptoms are especially important if they’ve become regular patterns and are affecting your child’s ability to function each day.
4. Struggling With School or Focus
Is your child having a harder time concentrating in class or completing homework? Are their teachers expressing concern? These could be indicators that they need extra support.
Other signs include:
- A drop in grades or interest in school
- Trouble staying organized or following instructions
- Behavior issues in the classroom
While these behaviors can sometimes be dismissed as “just acting out,” they may be early signs of anxiety, ADHD, or emotional distress.
5. Saying or Showing They Feel Hopeless
One of the clearest signals that your child may need mental health support is if they express feelings of hopelessness, fear, or low self-worth.
Watch for things like:
- Saying “I’m not good enough” or “Nobody likes me”
- Expressing fear or dread about the future
- Engaging in unsafe behaviors or talk of self-harm
It can be frightening to hear your child express these thoughts, but seeking help immediately can make a life-changing difference.
What To Do Next
If any of these signs feel familiar, reach out to our team for a consultation. Mental health care isn’t just for adults, and getting help doesn’t mean something is “wrong” with your child.
At McHur Care, we provide support for overwhelmed parents by walking alongside their kids and helping them navigate mental health. Our qualified team partners with families, schools, and local organizations, bringing compassionate care directly to you. Plus, our services are covered by Medicaid, making support more accessible for families who qualify.
You don’t have to figure this out alone—and your child doesn’t have to struggle in silence. Support is available, and healing is possible.
We’re Here to Help
Our team of professionals is here to walk alongside your family with personalized, Medicaid-covered services. Reach out today and take the first step toward a brighter future for your child.