We are about a month into the new school year, and if your student is struggling, it might not be just about school. Outside factors and mental health can make a huge impact on how successful children are in the classroom.
Parents should keep an eye out for the following signs that may point to an underlying issue with a child’s mental health:
- A decline in grades or school performance
- A change in attitude toward school
- Difficulty concentrating
- Reports of classroom disturbances due to emotional dysregulation
- Withdrawal from friends
- A sudden disinterest in activities
If parents are noticing these signs, it may be beneficial to see a mental health professional for further insight. Mental health professionals can help get to the root of the problem, whether it’s through consistent therapy or a further mental health assessment.
It’s about more than just getting a diagnosis. A mental health assessment can help parents better understand how a child’s mental health affects their ability to perform in school and identify appropriate support. An assessment looks at the child’s symptoms, strengths, specific challenges, and how the challenges are impacting daily functioning and school participation.
The results of the assessment can then help parents better communicate with the school and advocate for the support their child needs. Supports might include an IEP (Individualized Education Program) or 504 plan. An IEP provides tailored teaching methods to match the child’s learning pace and style; support services like speech-language therapy, counseling, or occupational therapy; and specific measurable goals. A 504 plan focuses on accommodations that help a student in the classroom, such as taking tests in a quiet room, wearing headphones to block out excess noise, receiving extended time on tests, or having access to a quiet zone.
It’s important to note that a mental health diagnosis does not automatically mean a child will qualify for an IEP or 504 plan. Each child has individual needs and schools also use their own evaluations and eligibility processes to determine what supports may be appropriate.
However, a mental health assessment helps a parent better understand what their child is experiencing, how it might be affecting their daily life, and what can be done to help them succeed.
If your child is struggling in school, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Connecting with a mental health professional can be an important first step toward understanding what your child needs and helping create a support system that allows them to feel successful in school and all aspects of their life.
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