Identifying Changes in Mental Health
There are lots of changes in behaviour as children grow up. So many of these are normal to childhood development, but some of these may point to mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
Always ask for support from your local GP or support services if you are worried. Here are some simple steps to help you spot some signs. M*A*S*K
- M = Mood - They get irritable, argumentative or aggressive towards you. They may blame you if things go wrong. They can also become withdrawn.
- A = Actions - They may experience changes in eating and sleeping patterns. Look out for any signs of bullying, alcohol, drugs or self-harm
- S = Social - They suddenly appear especially bored, lonely or withdrawn or they start to get into trouble. Losing interest in friends and other things they liked to do or missing school are common warning signs.
- K = They suddenly appear especially bored, lonely or withdrawn or they start to get into trouble. Losing interest in friends and other things they liked to do or missing school are common warning signs.
(Taken from Children's Mental Health - Action for Children Support)