Dr. Chinye Azuh On When Parents Should Consult a Pediatric Psychiatrist

  

While it may be a cliché, the old saying of “there is no rule book for parenthood” is grounded in truth. All parents want what’s best for their children, for them to be happy and healthy. So when a child is struggling in their daily life, whether that be related to their academics, friendships, or family relationships, it can be difficult for parents to know when to intervene. Dr. Chinye Azuh, a pediatric psychiatrist, based in New Jersey, recognizes the challenges many parents face in regards to this subject and hopes her expertise can help parents navigate this difficult period. 

 

When considering consulting a pediatric psychiatrist, many parents hesitate out of fear of unnecessary intervention.  This hesitation is understandable, as it can be difficult for parents to recognize the difference between a child’s normal everyday struggles and more serious psychological distress. All children will go through difficult periods in their life, where they will face emotional struggles and act out, show a lack of interest in old activities, and isolate for a period from friends and family. These reactions are perfectly normal and are not inherently indicative of emotional distress. So the question remains, how do parents know when their child is experiencing something more serious? 

 

Dr. Chinye Azuh states that there are a number of symptoms and behavior associated with different mental illnesses that can be used as warning signs for parents. Some of these symptoms and behaviors include: 

 

 

-        Showing significant changes in their sleeping and eating habits.

-        Has spoken explicitly about suicide or expressed the concept that “they wouldn’t be missed if they were gone.” 

-        Has shown signs of hopelessness or extreme anxiety regarding the future. 

-        Engages or discusses any kind of self-harm such as cutting, burning, pulling out hair, hitting or punching. 

-        Engages in frequent negative behaviors

-        A severe lack of self-confidence, discusses a strong dislike for themselves 

-        Is having problems in several areas of their life: struggling with academic performance, loss of friendships, lack of interest in hobbies or leisure activities, lashing out at family members or isolating themselves,

 

However, most importantly, Dr. Chinye Azuh stresses that parents should trust their instinct in regards to their child’s mental health. Parents know their children better than anyone and often have a good measure for when something is wrong or when their child needs professional mental health services.