As a parent, it can be tough to watch your child go through emotional ups and downs. But sometimes, the challenges they face go beyond the usual teenage mood swings. In Kerala, more students are struggling with anxiety and depression, and it’s important to recognize the signs early, so they don’t have to face these battles alone.
If you notice any of the behaviors listed below, it may be time to have an open conversation with your child and consider reaching out for mental health support for adolescents. Soocher can help you connect with caring professionals who are ready to support your child through these tough times, from the comfort of your home.
Signs of Depression and Anxiety in Children
1. Withdrawal from Social Activities
Signs to Watch For:
- Your child suddenly loses interest in activities they once loved.
- They avoid hanging out with friends or spending time with the family.
Typical Parental Reaction:
- You may think they’re just being shy or wanting some alone time.
- You might assume they’re just going through a phase.
The Right Approach to Support Your Child:
- Gently ask how they’re feeling and if something’s bothering them.
- Let them know it’s okay to feel down sometimes, and encourage small steps to reconnect with friends.
If you’re concerned, Kerala mental health services can help guide you and your child through this emotional struggle.
2. Increased Isolating Behaviors
Signs to Watch For:
- Your child spends a lot of time alone, even when there are chances to socialize.
- They avoid family events or social gatherings.
Typical Parental Reaction:
- You might think they’re just being introverted or need space.
- You may feel frustrated if they seem unwilling to interact.
The Right Approach to Support Your Child:
- Ask if something is troubling them and if there’s anything they’d like to talk about.
- Encourage them to reach out to friends, but let them go at their own pace.
Isolation can often be linked to anxiety and depression, and it’s something that shouldn’t be overlooked. Soocher offers online counseling to help your child feel heard.
3. Decline in Academic Performance
Signs to Watch For:
- They stop caring about schoolwork or seem distracted all the time.
- Homework isn’t completed, and their grades start slipping.
Typical Parental Reaction:
- You may feel disappointed or worry they’re not putting in enough effort.
- You might push them harder to do better without understanding why their focus is gone.
The Right Approach to Support Your Child:
- Sit down with them and talk about what might be going on—there could be stress or emotional challenges.
- Reach out to teachers and school counselors for additional support.
Remember, academic struggles can be a sign of mental health challenges like depression. Soocher’s professionals are here to help your child through these tough times, without the pressure.
4. Increased Perfectionism or Overachievement
Signs to Watch For:
- Your child is setting unreasonably high standards for themselves and stressing over every little mistake.
- They might become upset easily over anything less than perfect.
Typical Parental Reaction:
- You might praise their dedication without realizing how much pressure they’re under.
- You may not realize they’re burning out trying to keep up with their own expectations.
The Right Approach to Support Your Child:
- Remind them that it’s okay not to be perfect and that their mental health matters more than perfect grades.
- Encourage them to take breaks and practice self-compassion.
If perfectionism is overwhelming, it might be time to talk to a professional who can help your child find balance.
5. Physical Symptoms Without Clear Medical Cause
Signs to Watch For:
- They complain about constant headaches, stomachaches, or feeling tired.
- These complaints seem to appear more when they’re stressed, but no physical cause is found.
Typical Parental Reaction:
- You may assume they’re just trying to get out of school or activities.
- You might feel frustrated if doctors can’t find any medical reason for the symptoms.
The Right Approach to Support Your Child:
- Be patient and listen to their feelings—physical symptoms can often be linked to emotional distress.
- Encourage them to talk about any worries or fears they may have.
Emotional struggles can show up in unexpected ways, like physical symptoms. Soocher’s online consultations can help uncover and address the root causes of these issues.
6. Changes in Eating Habits
Signs to Watch For:
- They’re eating much more or less than usual, or they seem uninterested in food.
- You might notice unhealthy eating habits or dramatic changes in their diet.
Typical Parental Reaction:
- You might think they’re just going through a growth spurt or have lost interest in food for a while.
- You may get frustrated if they refuse to eat or eat too much.
The Right Approach to Support Your Child:
- Gently ask if something’s bothering them or affecting their appetite.
- Encourage healthy eating habits, and consider professional help if the change persists.
Emotional struggles like anxiety and depression in students can sometimes impact eating habits, and it’s important to address these signs early on.
7. Increased Irritability or Anger
Signs to Watch For:
- Your child seems unusually angry or irritated, even over small things.
- They may lash out or seem more emotionally reactive than usual.
Typical Parental Reaction:
- You might feel upset or frustrated, not understanding why they’re so angry.
- You may feel hurt or confused by their reactions.
The Right Approach to Support Your Child:
- Try to stay calm and ask them what’s bothering them—often, anger is a sign of deeper frustration or emotional pain.
- Support them in finding healthier ways to express their feelings.
A mental health professional can help your child work through their emotions and manage anger more effectively.
8. Excessive Self-Criticism or Negative Self-Talk
Signs to Watch For:
- Your child constantly puts themselves down or talks about their weaknesses.
- They seem to lack confidence and express feelings of inadequacy.
Typical Parental Reaction:
- You may encourage them to stop being so hard on themselves, not realizing how deeply these thoughts affect them.
- You may compare them to others, not knowing that it makes them feel worse.
The Right Approach to Support Your Child:
- Remind them of their strengths and praise their efforts, not just the results.
- Encourage them to talk to a counselor who can help change negative thought patterns.
Negative self-talk is common among teens struggling with depression and anxiety. Soocher’s counselors can provide the guidance your child needs.
9. Expressing Hopelessness or “Giving Up”
Signs to Watch For:
- Your child talks about feeling hopeless or as though nothing will ever improve.
- They might mention giving up or not seeing the point in trying anymore.
Typical Parental Reaction:
- You might feel confused or upset, unsure of how to comfort them.
- You may tell them to stay positive without realizing how deep their sadness goes.
The Right Approach to Support Your Child:
- Listen to their concerns without dismissing their feelings.
- Reassure them that things can get better, and offer to help them talk to someone who can support them.
If your child expresses hopelessness, it’s crucial to seek professional help. Suicide prevention in Kerala is a top priority, and early intervention can make all the difference.
10. Unexplained Absences or Skipping School
Signs to Watch For:
- Your child starts skipping school or finding excuses to avoid going.
- They might seem anxious or fearful about school, even if they don’t explain why.
Typical Parental Reaction:
- You might get angry or frustrated, not understanding why they’re avoiding school.
- You may assume they’re just being lazy or rebellious.
The Right Approach to Support Your Child:
- Ask them if there’s anything specific about school that’s bothering them.
- Work with their teachers or a school counselor to address any issues, whether academic or emotional.
School can feel overwhelming for children dealing with depression and anxiety, and professional support can help them manage their fears.
Taking Action: Helping Your Child Heal and Grow
As a parent, it’s tough to see your child struggle, but it’s important to trust your instincts and seek help when you notice signs of anxiety and depression in students. Whether it’s through open conversations at home or school counseling for depression, early intervention can make a world of difference.
If you’re noticing any of the signs listed above, Soocher is here for you. Through our easy-to-use online consultations, you can connect with caring psychologists and counselors who are ready to listen and help your child through whatever they’re facing.
You don’t have to go through this alone. Schedule an online consultation with Soocher today, and take the first step towards helping your child live a happier, healthier life.
