Mental Health in Kids: Recognising Anxiety and Mood Issues Early; What Parents and GPs Can Do

As parents, we often focus on our children’s physical health ensuring they eat well, sleep enough, and stay active. But their emotional and mental wellbeing is just as vital. Children, like adults, can experience stress, worry, and mood changes. The difference is that young minds often struggle to express these feelings clearly. Recognising early signs of anxiety or mood disorders can make a huge difference in helping kids build resilience and confidence for life.

Understanding Mental Health in Children

Mental health refers to how we think, feel, and behave. For children, it affects everything from how they learn at school and make friends, to how they cope with challenges and change. It’s normal for kids to feel anxious or sad from time to time. However, when these feelings become frequent, intense, or start interfering with daily life, they may signal a deeper issue.

Common mental health concerns in children include:

• Anxiety disorders (such as generalised anxiety, social anxiety, or separation anxiety)

• Depression and mood disorders

• Behavioural or emotional regulation difficulties

• Adjustment issues following life changes (such as moving schools or family separation)

Early Signs Parents Should Watch For

Every child is unique, but there are some key warning signs that may suggest your child is struggling emotionally:

• Changes in mood: Persistent sadness, irritability, anger, or tearfulness without clear reason.

• Withdrawal: Avoiding friends, family, or activities they once enjoyed.

• Sleep or appetite changes: Difficulty sleeping, nightmares, or changes in eating habits.

• Physical complaints: Frequent headaches, stomach aches, or tiredness without a medical cause.

• Academic decline: Sudden drop in school performance, loss of focus, or reluctance to attend school.

• Excessive worry: Constantly expressing fear or seeking reassurance about everyday events.

• Behavioural changes: Tantrums, aggression, or becoming overly clingy.

Recognising these early can prevent mental health challenges from escalating. Remember, children often express emotional distress through behaviour, not words.

What Causes Anxiety and Mood Issues in Kids?

Mental health difficulties in children can arise from a mix of genetic, environmental, and social factors. Common triggers include:

• Family stress, conflict, or separation

• Bullying or friendship issues

• Academic pressure or learning difficulties

• Chronic illness or disability

• Traumatic events or big life changes

• Excessive screen time and poor sleep

Sometimes, there may be no clear cause, which is why professional assessment is important. A GP or paediatrician can help identify whether what your child is experiencing is a normal developmental phase or something that requires further support.

How Parents Can Support Their Child’s Mental Wellbeing

1. Create a safe space for open conversation

Encourage your child to talk about their feelings without fear of judgment. Listen calmly and validate their emotions, avoid minimising their worries with phrases like “don’t worry” or “you’ll be fine.”

2. Establish consistent routines

Regular sleep, mealtimes, and family activities help children feel secure and grounded. Predictability gives them a sense of control, especially during uncertain times.

3. Model healthy coping strategies

Children often learn how to handle stress by watching their parents. Show them that it’s okay to take breaks, practice mindfulness, and ask for help when needed.

4. Limit screen time and encourage physical activity

Exercise and outdoor play boost mood, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality. Try family walks, park visits, or sports activities that strengthen both body and mind.

5. Connect with school and teachers

Teachers often notice behavioural or emotional changes before parents do. Keeping in touch with school staff ensures early intervention if your child starts to struggle.

6. Seek professional help early

If you notice ongoing emotional or behavioural concerns, reach out to your GP. They can assess your child’s mental health, rule out medical causes, and refer you to suitable support such as a child psychologist, counsellor, or paediatric specialist.

How a GP Can Help

Your GP is often the first point of contact when it comes to children’s mental health. They can:

• Conduct an initial mental health assessment

• Screen for underlying medical issues (like thyroid problems or sleep disorders)

• Provide a Mental Health Care Plan if counselling or therapy is needed

• Recommend child-friendly coping tools and parenting resources

• Coordinate care with psychologists, psychiatrists, and school wellbeing teams

Early support not only helps your child feel better faster but also reduces the risk of long-term challenges in adolescence or adulthood.

When to Seek Immediate Help

If your child expresses thoughts of self-harm, hopelessness, or wanting to disappear, seek help immediately.

Contact:

Lifeline – 13 11 14

Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800

Your nearest emergency department

Mental health support is always available, no child or parent should face these challenges alone.

Final Thoughts

Every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and understood. Early recognition and compassionate care can change the course of a young person’s life. If you’re concerned about your child’s mood, anxiety, or behaviour, speaking with a Glen Iris paediatrician or a trusted Glen Iris children’s doctor can make a big difference. Your Glen Iris kids’ doctor or Paediatric GP in Glen Iris can provide guidance, early assessment, and ongoing support to help your child thrive emotionally, socially, and physically

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP or a qualified healthcare professional. For emergencies, dial 000.