UASD Student Services
Taking care of your mental health
Keeping an eye on your child's mental health
We know this year has been beyond overwhelming at times, and it is no secret that it has taken a toll on the mental health of all - especially school-aged children. We are lucky to be working closely with other districts to brainstorm ways to make our students as successful as possible, and came across this resource from Dover Area School District in York County. While this year has focused primarily on physical health, today we want to offer additional partnership in your child’s emotional well-being. This school year has impacted each of us differently, but as you try to determine the extent of your child's potential impact, here are some things to look for (brought to you by http://healthychildren.org):
Infants, toddlers and young children...
may show backward progress in skills and developmental milestones. They may also have increased problems with:
- fussiness and irritability, startling and crying more easily, and more difficult to console.
- falling asleep and waking up more during the night.
- feeding issues such as frantic nippling, more reflux, constipation or loose stools, or new complaints of stomach pain.
- separation anxiety, seeming more clingy, withdrawn, or hesitant to explore.
- hitting, frustration, biting, and more frequent or intense tantrums.
- bedwetting after they're potty trained.
- urgently expressed needs while seeming unable to feel satisfied.
- conflict and aggression or themes like illness or death during play.
Older children and adolescents...
may show signs of distress with symptoms such as:
- changes in mood that are not usual for your child, such as ongoing irritability, feelings of hopelessness or rage, and frequent conflicts with friends and family.
- changes in behavior, such as stepping back from personal relationships. If your ordinarily outgoing teen shows little interest in texting or video chatting with their friends, for example, this might be cause for concern.
- a loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed. Did your music-loving child suddenly stop wanting to practice guitar, for example? Did your aspiring chef lose all interest in cooking and baking?
- a hard time falling or staying asleep, or starting to sleep all the time.
- changes in weight or eating patterns, such as never being hungry or eating all the time.
- problems with memory, thinking, or concentration.
- less interest in schoolwork and drop in academic effort.
- changes in appearance, such as lack of basic personal hygiene (within reason, since many are doing slightly less grooming during this time at home).
- an increase in risky or reckless behaviors, such as using drugs or alcohol.
- thoughts about death or suicide, or talking about it
If you are noticing any of these in your child, consulting with your pediatrician is a wonderful starting place. Additionally, Upper Adams School District School Counselors and Psychologist are a wealth of information and resources about what is available in the school and community. We have established partnerships with local organizations that ensure counseling and mental health services are accessible for ALL – regardless of transportation or finances. If you have any concerns regarding your child or a child you know and love, please reach out to your building’s counselor or administrator to see how we can work together.
UASD Student Services
Anne Corwell - Director of Student Services
Kelly Shannon - Assistant to the Director
Melissa McLean - School Psychologist
Erika Long - Biglerville ElementaryCourtney Kramer - UAIS
Kim Jenkins - UAMS
Bonnie Ott - BHS
Dani Horner - BHS
Website: upperadams.org
Location: 161 North Main Street, Biglerville, PA, USA