Could Your Child Benefit From Seeing A Psychiatrist?

One of my favorite areas of study has always been child psychiatry. I have always been fascinated by the development of their tiny brains and the progress that is made over the first few years. I remember as my children were in those first few years of development (and even still, Snapper), thinking back to my child psychology classes and being amazed and seeing it in front of my face.

My daughter sees a child psychiatrist on occasion, with her developmental pediatrician.  I enjoy being able to ask questions and listening to the theories on her different diagnosis. Snapper doesn't have the typical "handicaps" that most people associate with a psychiatrist, but she still benefits. When they were kids, my brothers saw one for their ADHD. There are many different reasons why a child may benefit from seeing a psychiatrist, even if there are no "problems."

1. Many things can effect a child that do not necessarily have an impact on adults. Bed wetting and other sleep issues can be caused by very simple things that a psychiatrist can figure out.

2. Is your child facing a major life change? Changing schools, parent divorce, moving, etc? A child psychiatrist can help them work through their feelings and adjust properly without as much set back as is normally expected.

3. Has your child lost a loved one and struggling to cope? This may be a good time for a child psychiatrist.

4. Is your child facing a bully, either child or adult? Have you run out of ideas to help? A psychiatrist can help work through their fears and deal with the bully in a productive manner.

5. Is there something going on with your child that you just cannot put your finger on? It may be time to call a psychiatrist.

6. If your child has major or unfounded fears, a psychiatrist can help.

7. Is your child complaining of physical problems, pain, colds, but there is no medical reason, or they are recurring? Sometimes these can result from emotional turmoil, or even depression, and a psychiatrist can help.

8. If your child is struggling in school all of a sudden, a psychiatrist may be what they need to work through problems. Even going away to school could be a reason for a consult with a psychiatrist.

9. Is your child getting in trouble a lot (home, school, with the police) or showing animosity toward authority figures? There may be an underlying issue that a psychiatrist can help with.

10. Nightmares, temper tantrums, depression, self-destructive behaviors, addictions, promiscuity, rage, depression, and change in eating habits are other things that you may want to consider having your child see a psychiatrist for.

As parents, we are usually the first to notice a change in behavior or emotional health, even if they try to hide it. We always want what is best for our children and try to handle these things in the correct way. It is OK to need help with this and it is OK to seek professional advice when our own emotions get in the way. Sometimes kids can benefit from talking with a stranger that "will not judge," even if we don't think we will, sometimes our kids think we will.