Canadian Mental Health Association
Signs and Symptoms
Approximately 1 in 5 children and youth in Ontario has a mental health challenge. About 70% of mental health challenges have their onset in childhood or youth.
That’s why early identification and intervention is so critical and can lead to improved achievement in school and better health outcomes in life.
Signs of a mental illness
Many children and youth will exhibit different moods, thoughts and behaviours at various times that can be part of normal childhood development. These include:
That’s why early identification and intervention is so critical and can lead to improved achievement in school and better health outcomes in life.
Signs of a mental illness
Many children and youth will exhibit different moods, thoughts and behaviours at various times that can be part of normal childhood development. These include:
- getting significantly lower marks in school
- avoiding friends and family
- having frequent outbursts of anger
- changes to sleeping or eating habits
- acting out or rebelling against authority
- drinking a lot and/or using drugs
- not doing the things he or she used to enjoy
- worrying constantly
- experiencing frequent mood swings
- not concerned with his or her appearance
- obsessed with his or her weight
- lacking energy or motivation
- increased risk-taking behaviour
- feeling very down
Mental Health Conditions
Mental health is not only the avoidance of mental health conditions. Your mental health is affected by numerous factors from your daily life, including the stress of balancing work with your health and relationships. In this section you will find resources to help you stay mentally fit and healthy across the lifespan.
Check out the link below to learn more about anger, depression, anxiety and more...
Check out the link below to learn more about anger, depression, anxiety and more...