Children are not able to fully recognize, process, or communicate their emotions, so they will show you that they need help in different ways. When you notice changes in your child’s behavior, it may cause you to wonder if your child needs therapy. Sometimes, these changes in behavior may be a direct result of a traumatic event that happened or could even sometimes just appear out of the blue. No matter the reason is that your child is experiencing changes in moods, behaviors or interests, it is important that you get them the help that they need. Children’s therapy is a great way that you can help get your child the help that they need. In therapy, your child will be able to express their emotions in a way that they understand. Our counselors at All About You Therapy Services want you to get the help that your child needs. Here are some of the signs that you need to watch for in your child to know if they need a therapist.
Social Isolation
One of the key behavior changes that you need to look out for is if you notice that they start to socially isolate. This can look like losing their desire to attend social functions, playing by themselves, or even choosing to eat lunch by themselves. Oftentimes, when a child displays this type of behavior, it is an indicator that they may be experiencing difficult emotions. When a child experiences feelings of anxiety or sadness, they can cope with it by isolating. If you notice that in your child, then you may want to find a therapist to get to the root of the problem.
Defiant Behavior
Because children do not have the ability to regulate their emotions in the same way that adults do, oftentimes when they are struggling, they will act defiantly to show that something is going on. They will not only act defiantly inside the home, but also outside the home. These acts of defiance can look like defensiveness, becoming more argumentative, and complaining more than they usually would have been. Keeping in touch with your child’s teachers is an effective way that you can know how your child is acting in school. If you notice defiant behavior in your child at home, and there is difficulty outside of the home, then you may want to look into getting your child into therapy.
Regression in Behavior
When a big event happens in the life of a child, such as a new baby or divorce, it is very common for them to have a period of regression. Some of the common ways in which a child will regress include bedwetting (after being potty trained), tantrums, clinginess, and anxiety. If your child starts to show these signs in the case of a major life change, then it is a completely normal and expected reaction. However, if these regressions appear out of the blue, then this is a serious indication that something may be wrong with your child and that therapy may be needed.
Shifts in Interests
If your child is experiencing a sudden shift in interests, there may be a problem that is occurring. It is common when a child is struggling, to see the sudden shift in sleeping habits, eating habits, as well as personal interests. While these are the easiest ones to notice, they are also the most suggestive that there may be something wrong. If you notice changes in any of these areas in your child’s life, and they last longer than two weeks, you will want to consider taking your child to a therapist so that they can get the help that they need.
Conclusion
Life is hard for everyone, and children are no exception to that. It is important to make sure that you are aware of the signs that may indicate that your child is struggling. If you notice any of these signs in your child, then make sure that you contact us. We look forward to getting your child the help that they need.
