When to Get Help

Parents and family members are often the first to be concerned about their child’s behavior or how they’re handling of big emotions. Sometimes it’s hard for parents to know when to act on their concerns because they don’t know if certain behaviors are typical for development. When behaviors or emotions are disrupting a child and their family over time and get in the way of age-appropriate activities at school or at home, it may be time to seek support.

Some examples of behavior that may mean a child needs additional support include: feeling sad or withdrawn for weeks at a time, severe mood swings, significant changes in behavior or personality, extreme over-eating or dieting, not being able to sit still or pay attention, intense worries that get in the way of daily life, or any behavior that is harmful to themselves (self-injurious) or others. 

Did you know that more than one-in-seven young adults ages 6 to 17 have a mental health condition? This can include anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, OCD or schizophrenia. (see NAMI listing) Additionally, 50% of all mental health conditions begin before the age of 14 and 75% start before the age of 24. Identifying warning signs or symptoms and seeking treatment early can make a difference in reducing the impact of a mental health condition. (NAMI Kids and Parents resources) 

We know that for some, asking for help for their young adult’s mental health condition may come with a stigma. While it may not be easy for your family, research tells us that addressing a young adult’s mental health along with their physical health early can make a lifelong impact. Many initiatives, like Ending the Silence, bring awareness to students and communities about the warning signs of mental health conditions and the steps parents and their young adults can take to address them.

Talk to Your Child’s Medical Provider

For most families, the first step is to contact your young adult’s primary care provider about your concerns. They can help parents and others recognize when behavior is outside the typical range and make referrals for further diagnosis or evaluation, if needed. You may want to write down your thoughts and keep track of when you first noticed anything concerning, including how often it happens and what seems to trigger it.

Talk to Family-Support Agencies

Connecting with family support organizations is an important part in helping families on this journey. Wisconsin Family Ties or 608.267.6888 is staffed by parents who have children with mental health concerns. They assist families in finding services and offer parent-peer specialists to help navigate systems and provide support. NAMI Wisconsin at 608.268.6000 or 800.950.6264 and Mental Health America of WI at 414.276.3122 provide information and advocacy for people with mental health concerns. WI FACETS at 877.374.0511 offers support and assistance for families with special education needs.

Talk to Your Child’s School

Many schools have a social worker or counselor to find resources and services for families. Your family can discuss available services during the school day and explore whether your child may qualify for special education support. 

Visit the Department of Public Instruction website, dpi.wi.gov, including their handbook: Special Education in Plain Language

To learn more about school mental health see School Mental Health | Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.  

Get a Professional Evaluation

Your child’s doctor or school staff may suggest an evaluation by a mental health professional. The primary care provider can provide a referral and offer the names of professionals or clinics who provide evaluations. It is essential to contact your insurance company or health plan first to find out which providers and evaluation services are covered under your private health insurance plan. If your child is enrolled in Wisconsin Medicaid, contact the mental health provider’s office to make sure they accept Medicaid before your visit.

Need Help Finding a Provider? Contact the Well Badger Resource Center. Their Youth Wellness Hub can help you find providers in your area.

After the Diagnosis

 Many families feel hopeful once they have a diagnosis and can start to learn more about their child’s condition. Here are a few online resources to start:

• • • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): org/Learn-More/Treatment
    • NAMI Wisconsin Resource Guide: org/resources
    • Office of Children’ Mental Health Support for Families: wi.gov/Pages/Resources/SupportForFamilies.aspx
    • Child Mind Institute – Parents Guide to Getting Good Care: org/guide/parents-guide-to-getting-good-care

Next Steps

Your primary care provider partners with your family to find the right treatment and services. This may include medication, therapy, community programs, or school-based support and services. Other programs and services, including support groups for teens and parents, may also benefit your family.

INFORMATION AND RESOURCES

Wisconsin Wayfinder: Children’s Resource Network, 877-WiscWay (877) 947-2929): Wisconsin Wayfinder offers families one name and phone number to find services for children with special health care needs. Wayfinder connects you to a resource guide at one of the five Children’s Resource Centers in your area.

Do you need a resource in another format or a printed copy? Contact Lynn@fvofwi.org.