<<<... The Causes Are Complicated
Mental health disorders in children and adolescents are caused mostly by biology and environment. Examples of biological causes are genetics, chemical imbalances in the body, or damage to the central nervous system, such as a head injury. Many environmental factors also put young people at risk for developing mental health disorders. Examples include: Exposure to environmental toxins, such as high levels of lead; Exposure to violence, such as witnessing or being the victim of physical or sexual abuse, drive-by shootings, muggings, or other disasters; Stress related to chronic poverty, discrimination, or other serious hardships; and The loss of important people through death, divorce, or broken relationships. Signs of Mental Health Disorders Can Signal a Need for Help Children and adolescents with mental health issues need to get help as soon as possible. A variety of signs may point to mental health disorders or serious emotional disturbances in children or adolescents. Pay attention if a child or adolescent you know has any of these warning signs: A child or adolescent is troubled by feeling: Sad and hopeless for no reason, and these feelings do not go away. Very angry most of the time and crying a lot or overreacting to things. Worthless or guilty often. Anxious or worried often. Unable to get over a loss or death of someone important. Extremely fearful or having unexplained fears. Constantly concerned about physical problems or physical appearance. Frightened that his or her mind either is controlled or is out of control... more>>>