1 in 5 children, ages 13‐18, have or will have a serious mental illness. Knowing this, it is important for parents, guardians, family members, teachers and/or others to watch for signs of mental illness in
children. These changes can include withdrawal, sadness, anxiety symptoms, mood swings, excessive
fear, loss of interest in activities they use to enjoy and/or even self harm to him or herself. If a change in
their behavior is recognized, it should be addressed immediately. Talk with the child, parent/guardian,
doctor, teacher and/or others who are involved in the child’s care to discuss these behaviors. For a
mental health assessment, call LMHC’s Intake Specialist to set up an appointment with a mental health
professional to discuss the needs of the child.
