Recognizing Emotional Problems

The early identification and treatment of emotional problems in children is very important, before they develop into serious psychiatric disturbances. A number of symptoms are often the first signs of trouble and must be recognized early. Here are seven questions that you should ask yourself about your child's behavior. If some of the answers are "yes", he may have a problem.

1. Does he have trouble with a teacher or does he appear less interested than usual in school?

2. Does he daydream or become easily distracted?

3. Is he sad and unhappy or irritable and angry most of the time?

4. Are his school grades dropping or is he absent from school more than usual?

5. Does he worry a lot and have trouble sleeping?

6. Does he spend more time alone than before and tire more easily?

7. Does he always blame others for his problems?

It may all turn out to be a false alarm, but allow your doctor to help decide if anything is wrong and if so, what should be done about it.

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