When it comes to children’s mental health, it is easier to see when a child is hurt on the outside than when they are hurting on the inside. Many children and teens do not have the words to explain what they are feeling, and some may show their struggles through changes in behavior or risky choices. Because of shame, misunderstanding, or fear of being judged, many children do not get the help they need.
Below are some common myths and truths about children’s mental health. When families, caregivers, and schools work together to clear up these misunderstandings, it becomes easier to recognize when a child needs help and make sure they get the right support.
Myth: A child with a mental health disorder is impaired for life.
Truth: A mental health condition does not mean a child cannot grow up to live a happy, meaningful life. When a child’s struggles are noticed and supported early, they have a strong chance of learning healthy ways to cope, feeling better, and growing into a healthy adult.
Myth: Mental health problems are the result of a personal weakness.
Truth: Children may exhibit impulsivity, aggressive behavior, or anxiety as a symptom of a psychiatric disorder. A mental health disorder is an illness and not the result of a personal weakness.
Myth: Childhood mental health disorders result from bad parenting.
Truth: Parenting does not cause mental health conditions. It is an illness and many types have biological causes. Parents can make a big difference by giving their child support, care, and help along the way.
Myth: A child can use their own willpower to manage their mental health disorder on their own.
Truth: The mental health disorder can impact all areas of a child’s life, and they do not have the skills and life experience to manage them on their own.
Myth: Therapy for kids is a waste of time.
Truth: Therapy can be very helpful for children and teens. Today’s evidence-based treatments are practical and focus on building healthy thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Research has shown that there is a “window of time” when therapy interventions can be the most successful and this is usually within a few years of first symptoms appearing.
Myth: Children are overmedicated.
Truth: It is a myth that professionals prescribe medication to every child they see. Quality physicians will use their skills and knowledge to determine the best treatment plan for the child whether it includes medication, therapy or both.
Myth: Children will outgrow mental health problems.
Truth: Dr. Koplewicz says “Children are less likely to “grow out” of psychiatric disorders than they are to “grow into” more debilitating conditions.” If mental health problems are left untreated, it can become very difficult to treat as the child becomes an adult. Most mental health or psychiatric disorders appear by age 14, so it is important to identify and secure proper treatment while the child’s brain is most responsive to intervention.
Credit: Child Mind Institute, “7 Myths About Child Mental Health,” by Harold S. Koplewicz, MD https://childmind.org/article/7-myths-about-child-mental-health/