Parent & caregiver guide
Is this normal, or is it time for counseling?
Almost every feeling a child has is normal. What matters is the pattern. Ask three questions: How long has it lasted? How intense is it? Is it interfering with school, friendships, family, sleep, or eating? Two or more yeses means it's worth a professional opinion — and getting an opinion is never an overreaction.
Save this guide or share it with a teacher, counselor, or co-parent.
What to look for
Common signs
- Duration: symptoms lasting more than 2–4 weeks
- Intensity: reactions far bigger than the situation
- Interference: school, friends, sleep, or appetite are affected
- A clear change from your child's baseline personality
- Any self-harm, hopelessness, or talk of not wanting to be here
Do this first
Practical strategies to try today
- 01
Track two weeks of observations before calling anyone — patterns beat impressions.
- 02
Start with the pediatrician for a behavioral health screening and a referral.
- 03
Ask the school counselor what they observe; they see your child in a different setting.
- 04
Look for child-trained clinicians using CBT, play therapy, or family therapy.
- 05
Treat the first session as a fit-check. Switching therapists is normal and okay.
How to bring it up
Conversation starters
"I've noticed things have felt heavier lately. Have you noticed that too?"
"Would it help to talk to someone who isn't me?"
"What would you want a counselor to know first?"
Print & use tonight
Worksheets and checklists
Watch
Recommended videos
Where to turn
Community resources
Don't wait
When to seek additional support
- Any talk of suicide or self-harm — call or text 988 immediately
- Two or more of duration, intensity, and interference
- Your gut says something is wrong — that counts as evidence
Still not sure what your child needs? Care Solutions offers free, non-clinical navigation for families — tell us what's going on and we'll help you find the next step.