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SALT LAKE CITY — The world of health and medicine can be confusing to many parents. But Nurse Suzy is here help clarify some of the issues that are important to you and your family.
This week's question deals with children's behavior and knowing when to seek professional help.
Question:
How do I know when my child's behavioral and/or emotional problems are serious enough to be treated by a doctor or mental health professional? If my child is on medication for these issues, what are signs the medicine is not working or is causing problems that need to be re-evaluated?
Answer:
All children are different, and therefore we need different ways to handle their individual characteristics. Because there is no magic formula to fall back on, parents should always seek medical attention when they find that none of their basic parenting skills are not working. Many children need to be tested to see what their behavioral issues may be. - Could they be hypersensitive to sugar or red food dye?
- Is there a medical condition that's causing them to not feel well, so acting out becomes their coping strategy?
- Is there a self-esteem issue which needs to be addressed and solved?
If your child is already on medication for behavioral issues, you need to understand there are literally hundreds of different medications and medication combinations that can be used. Your child may need to try several different medications to find the right combination that will work for him or her. But be aware that when you start or change a medication, it takes four to eight weeks to see any kind of change. The process takes patience.
As another solution, may I suggest having parents check their own mental strength and coping abilities. Sometimes a parent's own untreated need for counseling, medication or even parenting classes on how to deal with difficult children can have a negative effect on their child's behavior. Our society is full of stressors, and while children may only be one of many we deal with, they are often the ones who can push us to our limit the quickest.
If you think there's a problem with you or your child, seek help. Parenting is very hard, and no one has the perfect child or parent. Never give up.
If you have a question for Nurse Suzy, send her an email at nursesuzyksl@gmail.com.
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Suzanne Carlile, "Nurse Suzy," has been a nurse since 1982. Her main focus of nursing is Critical Care areas and Nursing Education. She holds a master's degree in nursing, is a Certified Emergency Nurse, and a member of NNSDO Intermountain West Chapter.
