top of page

Sapling MINDS

Beyond Behavioural Labels

Understanding Mental Health in Children



As parents, we often face the challenge of interpreting our children's actions and behaviours. It's easy to label a child as a "worrier" or "defiant" when they exhibit certain behaviours. However, these labels can sometimes mask underlying mental health vulnerabilities or difficulties. By recognising the signs and understanding the true nature of these behaviours, we can provide the support our children need to thrive.


Misinterpreting Behavioural Signs


Children's behaviour can be complex and multifaceted. When a child demonstrates a pattern of anxious behaviours at certain times or seems overly worried, we might dismiss it as a personality trait, calling them a "worrier." Similarly, when a child is frequently defiant or oppositional, we might assume they're being deliberately difficult or rebellious. However, these behaviours can be signs of deeper issues such as anxiety, depression, or other mental health vulnerabilities.


A child who is labelled as a "worrier" might actually be struggling with anxiety. This can manifest as excessive concern about various aspects of life, such as school performance, social interactions, or family dynamics. Anxiety can cause physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches, leading to further misinterpretation of the child's behaviour.


Children who are perceived as moody or disinterested might be experiencing depression. This can be mistaken for defiance or laziness when, in reality, the child is struggling to find motivation or joy in daily activities.


Recognising the Need for Support


Understanding the underlying causes of these behaviours requires careful observation and a willingness to look beyond surface-level actions. As parents, it's crucial to ask ourselves if there might be more to our child's behaviour than meets the eye. Here are some steps to consider:


  1. Observation: Take note of patterns in your child's behaviour. Are there specific triggers or situations that lead to the behaviour? Understanding these patterns can help identify underlying issues and support required.

  2. Communication: Engage in open and non-judgmental conversations with your child. Ask them how they're feeling and what might be bothering them. Creating a safe space for them to express their emotions can provide valuable insights.

  3. Consultation: If you suspect that your child's behaviour might be linked to mental health challenges, consider seeking professional advice. Paediatricians, psychologists, and counsellors can offer assessments and guidance tailored to your child's needs.


Providing the Right Support


If you recognise that your child's behaviour might require additional support, the next step is to consider what options there could be to provide appropriate support for them. Consider things such as:


  1. Therapy: Professional counselling or therapy can help children learn coping mechanisms and strategies to manage their emotions. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), for instance, is effective in treating anxiety and depression in children.

  2. School Support: Work with your child's school to ensure they receive the support they need. This might include accommodations such as extra time on tests, a quiet space for breaks, or individualised learning plans.

  3. Home Environment: Consider ways to support your child’s development of necessary skills in the home environment. By incorporating relevant and supportive practices into your daily routines and interactions, you can help your child foster resilience, authenticity, a healthy perception of failure, and enhanced problem-solving abilities and risk-taking confidence. This helps prepare them for the complexities of life.

  4. Mindfulness and Relaxation: Teach your child mindfulness and relaxation techniques. These can help them manage stress and anxiety, improving their overall wellbeing.

  5. Healthy Lifestyle: Ensure your child maintains a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep. Physical health is closely linked to mental wellbeing.


Conclusion: A New Perspective


It's essential to shift our perspective from viewing challenging behaviours as intentional defiance to recognising them as potential signals of underlying issues. By doing so, we can provide the necessary support and interventions to help our children navigate their struggles effectively.


Understanding and addressing mental health vulnerabilities in children requires patience, empathy, and a willingness to seek out and provide appropriate support. As parents, our role is to look beyond the surface and recognise the deeper needs of our children. By doing so, we can help them develop resilience, confidence, and emotional wellbeing, laying the foundation for a healthier, happier future.



bottom of page