When Should You See A Child Psychologist?

Parenting does not come with a manual. Although we try to do our best, sometimes we feel overwhelmed and need to ask for help. Going to a child psychologist can cause doubts and fears, but it is the right decision on many occasions.

What is normal?

At some point, almost all parents wonder if their child’s behavior is normal and temporary or if they should be concerned? Don’t despair. It is important to know that children go through different stages in their evolutionary process with characteristic behaviors that help them to develop as humans.

For example, when children are two years old, they enter a phase of negativity and tantrums that is completely normal. In the same way, it is common for children up to the age of seven to find it difficult to stay focused or regulate their behavior when they are excited.

That is, certain behaviors or fears may be completely adequate at a certain age and cease to be as the child grows. On the other hand , the personality of the child also plays a decisive role. An introverted child will enjoy being alone, while a more restless child will need additional external stimuli.

Before we catalog behavior as problematic, we need to clearly identify whether it’s part of the developmental stage our children go through or if it’s part of their personality.

Sometimes it is also possible that the focus of the intervention is the parents and not the child. We may be too demanding or overprotective of our child, giving us an unrealistic notion of childhood. If this happens, a psychological intervention aimed at parental orientation can resolve the situation.

When should you see a child psychologist?

Unfortunately , there is still a taboo surrounding the decision to see a child psychologist. Some parents may think it is not really necessary or may see it as a sign of weakness.

Seeking professional help doesn’t mean you’re a bad parent or that you’ve done something wrong. Rather, it just shows that you want to provide the best education and childhood for your children.

There are some situations that can certainly be corrected over time. When there is a change in the child’s life, such as a divorce or going to a different school, it can only take time to adjust to the new situation. However , it is important to be alert in case no adjustment occurs.

In the same way that we deem it necessary, it may be appropriate to see a child psychologist to help the child through that stage. Sometimes prevention is the best medicine. This support can prevent circumstances from negatively affecting or overwhelming your children.

On the other hand, we must not forget that there are situations where it is better to act as quickly as possible. Otherwise, the symptoms may become worse or chronic and the children will miss part of their childhood until we provide a solution.

Important points to keep in mind

The main parameters that we should pay attention to when deciding to see a child psychologist are the following:

• Behavior that is not normal. Either because our children behave very differently from the rest of the children their age, or because their behavior changes radically overnight. That is why it is important to know the evolutionary stages of our children and their personalities.
• Time. If abnormal behavior or mood persists for several months, then we should consider seeing a professional. It may mean that the children cannot handle the situation on their own and need help.
• Influence in their daily lives. If a behavior, anxiety, or emotional state significantly affects the child’s daily life and well-being, we should seek help. Even if this hasn’t been going on for a long time. If the effect that occurs is significant, then we don’t have to wait.
• Physical symptoms without medical explanation. If the child often starts to have headaches, stomachaches or skin problems for no medical reason. We may then be confronted with somatization of an emotional problem.