Knowing your child is struggling is one of the hardest parts of being a parent. The desire to take away their pain is immense.
But knowing what to do next, how to find the right course, what to say, what not to say… It’s overwhelming.
The world of child mental health care is like a confusing map without a compass. You want to make the right choices, but you’re worried about making a misstep.
We’re here today with a compass. Our guide will help you navigate this journey with confidence, compassion, and clarity.
This is a No-Shame Zone
Before we go any further, let’s make one thing clear: This is not a list of parenting mistakes.
Parenting is the hardest and most important job in the world, and it’s without a manual.
This is a list of common, understandable hurdles that caring parents face and make everywhere. It’s a conversation about empowerment, not failure. There is no shame in uncertainty.
The very fact that you are here, reading this, shows how deeply you care.
7 Common Hurdles in a Child’s Mental Health Care
1. The Hurdle: Waiting for a Full-Blown Crisis
It’s so easy to think, “It’s just a phase,” or “They’ll grow out of it.” We hope for the best, but sometimes, this means we wait until a child’s struggles have become overwhelming.
The Positive Shift
Trust your intuition. If you feel something is off, it’s worth exploring. Early support is far more effective than intervention in a crisis.
We don’t wait for a cavity before teaching our kids to brush their teeth. The same applies here. Providing mental health support for kids proactively is a gift of resilience.
2. The Hurdle: Dismissing Their Feelings as “Drama”
In a world of big emotions, it can be tempting to say, “You’re overreacting,” or “It’s not a big deal.” While well-intentioned, this can make a child feel unheard, dismissed, and alone.
The Positive Shift
Lead with validation. Even if you don’t understand their feelings, validate them.
Saying, “It sounds like that was really hard for you,” or “I can see you’re very upset,” creates a safe space.
It tells your child their feelings matter, which is foundational mental health support for kids. You don’t have to agree with the reaction to acknowledge the reality of their feeling.
3. The Hurdle: Fearing a “Label” or Diagnosis
Many parents worry that a diagnosis will stigmatize their child or put them in a box forever. For some, it might be difficult to come to terms with the fact that their child might need help.
The Positive Shift
A diagnosis is not a label; it’s a tool. It provides clarity and helps professionals create the most effective, tailored support plan. It gives a name to what your child is experiencing, which can be a huge relief for them.
4. The Hurdle: Fixing the Behavior, Missing the Feeling
Difficult behaviors are often signals of a deeper emotional need. Focusing only on stopping the behavior (like yelling or withdrawing), without asking why it’s happening is treating the symptom but ignoring the cause.
The Positive Shift
Get curious. Gently ask, “I’ve noticed you’ve been angry a lot lately. What’s going on?” This shifts the focus from punishment to understanding.
Importantly, ask open-ended and judgment-free questions.
5. The Hurdle: Seeing Therapy as a “Drop-Off” Service
Agreeing to and finding a child therapist is major. But similar to studying at school, your involvement in the process doesn’t stop there. The most profound healing happens when therapy is a collaborative process involving the entire family.
The Positive Shift
You are a vital part of the team. Joining family therapy sessions when recommended and practicing the suggested communication tools at home are a must.
6. The Hurdle: Expecting an Instant “Fix”
Therapy for children (or anyone) is not like taking a pill for a headache. It’s a process of building trust, learning new skills, and gently healing wounds. Progress also comes with ups and downs.
The Positive Shift
Embrace the journey. Celebrate small victories, be patient during setbacks, and trust the therapeutic process. True, lasting change takes time.
7. The Hurdle: Not Knowing How to Find the Right Help
The process of finding a child therapist can be like searching for a needle in a haystack. What qualifications matter? What approach is best? Who can you trust for your child’s mental health?
The Positive Shift
Prioritize connection and collaboration. The “best” therapist is the one your child connects with. Look for a professional who is not only qualified but also specializes in working with children and advocates a collaborative, family-centered approach.
The Support Effect: It’s for the Whole Family
Choosing to pursue child mental health care isn’t just for your child. It’s a gift to your entire family.
When a child learns to manage their emotions, everyone benefits. Communication improves, family bonds strengthen, and your home becomes a more peaceful, resilient place.
At BMH, our goal is to be a compassionate, education-forward provider. We help parents feel empowered and confident in the choices they make for their families.
You’re not meant to have all the answers, but you don’t have to search for them alone.
Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified mental healthcare provider before starting any new medication or therapy. Beverley Mack Harry Consulting Services is not responsible for any injuries or damages resulting from using the information provided in this post.