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INTANTIL
What is mental health?
THE WHO DEFINES MENTAL HEALTH AS "A STATE OF WELL-
BEING IN WHICH EACH INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPS HIS OR HER
POTENTIAL, CAN COPE WITH THE STRESSES OF LIFE, CAN
WORK PRODUCTIVELY AND FRUITFULLY, AND CAN
CONTRIBUTE SOMETHING TO HIS OR HER COMMUNITY."
HAVING MENTAL HEALTH IN CHILDHOOD MEANS REACHING
DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES AND EMOTIONAL MILESTONES, AS
WELL AS LEARNING HEALTHY SOCIAL SKILLS AND HOW TO DEAL
WITH PROBLEMS THAT MAY ARISE.
What is mental health like in childhood?
THERE ARE TIMES WHEN EVERY CHILD BECOMES SAD OR ANXIOUS,
IRRITABLE OR AGGRESSIVE. SOMETIMES IT IS DIFFICULT FOR
CHILDREN TO SIT STILL, PAY ATTENTION, OR INTERACT WITH
OTHERS. IN MOST CASES, THESE ARE JUST NORMAL PHASES OF
DEVELOPMENT.
most common mental disorders in childhood
• ANXIETY DISORDERS.
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
• Autism spectrum disorder.
• Eating disorders.
• Depression and other mood disorders.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder.
• Schizophrenia
how to evaluate a child's mental health?
Symptoms of mental disorders change over time as a child grows, and may include difficulties in the way they play,
learn, speak, and act, or in how they manage their emotions. Symptoms usually begin in early childhood, although
some of the disorders may appear in adolescence.
What is the impact of mental disorders in children?
Mental health is important for overall health. Mental disorders are chronic conditions (those that last
a long time and often never completely go away) that can continue throughout life. Without early
diagnosis and treatment, children with mental disorders can have problems at home, at school, and
making friends.
What you can do
Parents: You know your child better than anyone. Talk to your child's health
care professional if you have concerns about the way your child behaves at
home, at school, or with friends.
Young people: Taking care of mental health is as important
as taking care of physical health. If you are angry, worried
or sad, don't be afraid to talk about your feelings and go to a
friend or trusted adult.
Healthcare professionals:
It is very important to have early diagnosis and appropriate treatment based on
updated guidelines. Resources are available to help diagnose and treat mental
disorders in children