Mental health in children is something that’s not often talked about. At Avalon Malibu, we know how complicated it can be for parents when their child receives a mental health diagnosis. In this blog, we’re going to go over some things to consider if your child has recently been given a diagnosis. As always, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Avalon Malibu staff if you have further questions or are looking for individualized support.
Children and a Mental Health Diagnosis
Having a child receive a mental health diagnosis can be complicated for a variety of reasons. Some parents feel overwhelmed by a new diagnosis, while others may feel relieved or a mix of many different emotions. It’s important to be gentle and patient with yourself. If you’re experiencing negative emotions, know that it’s natural to have a lot of questions or be unsure of how you feel.
Research
One of the best things that you can do after your child receives a mental health diagnosis is research. Learning as much as you can about their diagnosis will be beneficial for a wide variety of reasons. Consider taking a look at all of the different treatment options available, so that you can be confident you’re on the right track and your child is getting the care that your family feels is best.
There are so many great resources available (blogs, podcasts, scientific articles, etc.) if you’re looking to learn more about mental health. Make sure that you consult sources that are written by professionals in the field, such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) website.
Advocate
Having a child with a mental health diagnosis often requires parents to advocate for them in many different settings. This can be extremely challenging for some parents. While you’re advocating for your child, make sure to stand up for their needs and make providers aware of any specific changes or concerns you have regarding their diagnosis.
We understand that many parents have complicated feelings when their child is given a mental health diagnosis. If you’d like to speak with a member of our team about your situation and your child’s mental health, we’re always here to help. You can go ahead and give us a call today at (844) 857-5992. We’ll connect you with a member of our team who can provide you with more mental health resources and individualized advice that’s specific to your situation.Â
