Use the How to Find Help for Your Child form to see how the mental healthcare system works. 

Is Your Child in Crisis?

If you think your child may have a mental health issue, the first question you should ask is whether or not they are in crisis. If your child is in crisis, it means they are at high risk of causing harm to self or others or are completely not able to function. 

If Your Child Is Not in Crisis

If your child is not in crisis, but you still think that they may have a mental health issue, then start to keep track of your child’s signs and symptoms and make an appointment with your child’s pediatrician. At this point, it may also be helpful to contact your child’s school and let them know that you are concerned about your child’s mental health. It is important to begin communicating with your child’s school in order to ensure your child is receiving the best care possible.

Make an Appointment with Your Child's Pediatrician

If your child’s pediatrician determines that your child’s signs and symptoms are not a part of normal child development, then they will suggest getting your child evaluated. In some cases, a pediatrician can do an initial screening. However, in most cases, a pediatrician will refer your child to a mental health specialist.

If your child’s pediatrician determines that your child’s signs and symptoms are a part of normal child development, but you are still concerned about your child’s mental health, then you should talk to your child’s pediatrician about your options. Consider getting your child evaluated by a mental health specialist. Also, consider seeking a second opinion. 

Consider Getting a Second Opinion

Getting a second opinion means that you make an appointment with a different pediatrician or mental health specialist to evaluate your child’s mental health. If this change in behavior does turn out to be a part of normal child development, you can still seek additional support and build your parenting knowledge to help your child through this stage.

After Your Child's Evaluation

After your child receives an evaluation, it is possible that your child may be diagnosed with a mental illness. A diagnosis will usually lead to suggested treatment. Learn all you can about your child’s diagnosis and treatment plan. At this point, a number of different mental health providers are likely to be introduced into your child’s life. You will have to become your child’s advocate. Treatment can include working with mental health specialists, hospitals and health centers, early childhood programs, the school system, state agencies, community and non-profit organizations, health insurance care managers, or a combination of the all of these. You will also need to figure out ways to pay for your child’s care.

Hopefully, once your child begins treatment, you will see improvement in him or her. If you do see an improvement, continue with the treatment plan. If you do not see an improvement in your child, then talk to your child’s mental healthcare providers. You may need a revised treatment plan to help manage any symptoms that continue. Remember, it can take time before you see a change. Be patient. If this revised plan still does not improve your child’s signs and symptoms, then you should talk to your child’s mental healthcare providers or seek a second opinion to re-evaluate your child’s situation.