The ABCs of Bullying
Addressing, Blocking, and Curbing School Aggression
Seeking Help for a Child
Parents usually are the first to recognize possible mental health problems in their child, but the decision to seek professional help is not an easy one. If possible, the parent should try to talk to the child openly and gently about his or her feelings and concerns. Parents also may want to talk to the child's teachers, doctor, members of the clergy, or any other adults who know the child well. ref
Did you know?
Behavioral and emotional signs that something may be wrong sometimes differ depending on the age of the child.
Behavioral and emotional signs that something may be wrong sometimes differ depending on the age of the child. The following is a list of possible signs (not exhaustive) that may help a parent determine if professional help is needed: ref
Younger Children
- Marked fall in school performance
- Poor grades in school despite trying very hard
- Excessive worry or anxiety (e.g., regular refusal to go to school, go to sleep, or take part in regular activities)
- Hyperactivity, fidgeting, constant movement beyond normal activity
- Persistent nightmares
- Persistent disobedience/aggression (longer than 6 months)
- Frequent temper tantrums
Pre-Adolescents and Adolescents
- Marked change in school performance
- Inability to cope with problems and daily activities
- Marked changes in eating and sleeping habits
- Many physical complaints
- Sexual acting out
- Depression shown by sustained, prolonged negative mood and attitude
- Abuse of alcohol and/or drugs
- Eating issues (fear of becoming fat, or restricting eating)
- Threats of self-harm or harm to others, self-injury, or self-destructive behaviors
- Aggressive or nonaggressive violation of rights of others
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Last Updated: 5/19/04
SAMHSA is an Agency of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
