Emotional Disorders in Children: When to Seek Help

Emotional disorders

My child has been very inattentive since childhood, but there has been some improvement with age (currently in sixth grade).
He is usually very considerate and polite, and he reads a lot.
However, his emotional fluctuations are significant, and he exhibits frequent physical movements.
He understands reasoning when we talk to him, but he reacts intensely in certain situations and struggles to control himself.
He tends to have a negative outlook on many things and often worries about various issues (recently, he was very anxious about a news report regarding a planet potentially colliding with Earth in a few years).
The teacher is concerned that he may have an emotional disorder.
What is your opinion on whether he needs to see a doctor? If so, could you recommend a physician for me? (I live in Taichung City) Thank you!

Jill, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/03/19

Dr. You Shunjie reply Psychiatry

I apologize for the delayed response.
In your letter, you mentioned that your child is currently in sixth grade and has had difficulty concentrating since childhood.
Although there are times when he is very caring, he also experiences significant mood swings and tends to have a negative outlook on things.
You are seeking advice on whether a consultation is necessary and where to go for it.

First, I want to commend you for being a dedicated mother who is attentive to these issues with your child.
Raising a child who has always struggled with concentration must have taken a lot of your time and effort.
Based solely on the information provided (sometimes very caring, but also experiencing mood swings and having a negative perspective), it seems that your child may have faced many demands growing up.
It’s possible that he has received more criticism than encouragement, which could contribute to emotional difficulties.

While it’s difficult to make a definitive assessment based on just a few observations, I recommend that you consider taking your child to a child psychiatrist for a professional evaluation.
In the Taichung area, Dr.
Ma at Taichung Hospital has extensive experience, and Dr.
Chen at Caotun Psychiatric Hospital, as well as Dr.
Lin and Dr.
Hou at Taichung Veterans General Hospital, are all reliable physicians.
I encourage you to take the time to visit one of these specialists, as it could be very beneficial for your child.
Wishing you and your family peace and joy.

Reply Date: 2004/03/19

More Info

It sounds like you are facing a challenging situation with your child, who is exhibiting signs of emotional dysregulation and anxiety. Understanding when to seek help for emotional disorders in children is crucial, as early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.

From your description, your child has shown some positive traits, such as being caring and polite, and has a keen interest in reading. However, the emotional fluctuations, intense reactions to situations, and persistent worries are concerning. Children can experience a range of emotional disorders, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and attention-related issues. Given that your child is experiencing significant distress over events that may seem minor to adults, such as worrying about a news report about a planet colliding with Earth, it may indicate an underlying anxiety disorder.

When to Seek Help
1. Intensity and Duration of Symptoms: If your child's emotional reactions are intense and last for an extended period, it may be time to seek professional help. Frequent outbursts, inability to calm down, and persistent worries that interfere with daily life are red flags.

2. Impact on Daily Functioning: If your child's emotional state is affecting their ability to function at school, maintain friendships, or engage in family activities, this is a strong indicator that intervention is needed.

3. Physical Symptoms: Sometimes, emotional distress can manifest physically. If your child is experiencing headaches, stomachaches, or other unexplained physical symptoms related to their anxiety or emotional state, this warrants attention.

4. Parental Concern: Your instinct as a parent is vital. If you feel that your child's emotional responses are beyond what is typical for their age, seeking help is a proactive step.

Steps to Take
1. Consult a Pediatrician: Start by discussing your concerns with your child's pediatrician. They can provide an initial assessment and refer you to a child psychologist or psychiatrist if necessary.

2. Seek a Child Psychologist: A child psychologist can conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if your child has an emotional disorder. They can provide therapy tailored to your child's needs, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which is effective for anxiety and emotional regulation.

3. Consider a Psychiatrist: If medication is deemed necessary, a child psychiatrist can evaluate your child and prescribe appropriate medication. This is usually considered when therapy alone does not alleviate symptoms.

4. Look for Local Resources: Since you mentioned you live in Taichung City, you can search for child mental health services in your area. Local hospitals, community health centers, and schools often have resources or can recommend specialists.

5. Support Groups: Connecting with other parents facing similar challenges can provide emotional support and practical advice. Look for local or online support groups focused on children's mental health.

Additional Considerations
- Communication: Keep the lines of communication open with your child. Encourage them to express their feelings and worries. This can help them feel supported and understood.

- Routine and Structure: Children often thrive in environments with clear routines and expectations. Establishing a consistent daily schedule can provide a sense of security.

- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Teaching your child mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help them manage anxiety and emotional responses.

- Positive Reinforcement: Acknowledge and reinforce positive behaviors and coping strategies your child employs. This can boost their confidence and encourage them to manage their emotions more effectively.

In conclusion, seeking help for your child's emotional challenges is a responsible and caring decision. Early intervention can lead to better coping strategies and emotional regulation, ultimately helping your child thrive. Don't hesitate to reach out to professionals who can guide you through this process.

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