Posted on October 9, 2025

Recognizing Early Signs of Mental Health Struggles in Children: Behavior, Sleep, and School Changes

Did you know that mental health struggles in children can first appear as changes in behavior sleep patterns , or academic performance

Globally, 1 in 7 adolescents experiences a mental disorder, accounting for 15% of the global burden in this age group.

Changes in sleep patterns, attention, mood, or learning may be subtle signals that something is affecting a child’s emotional well-being.

Stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem can all influence how a child thinks, learns, and interacts with others.

Mental health is just as important as physical health, and children benefit from safe spaces to express themselves, supportive relationships, and access to guidance when they struggle.

Interventions at home, at school, and with professionals can build resilience and help children navigate challenges more confidently.

Early recognition and timely intervention are crucial. With appropriate support, children can develop resilience and coping strategies, leading to better outcomes in their emotional and psychological well-being.

On this World Mental Health Day, let’s commit to noticing, understanding, and supporting children’s mental well-being. Awareness today lays the foundation for healthier minds tomorrow.