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Mental Health in Children 6 to 9

Helping children navigate emotional challenges with compassionate care and expert therapy.

Mental Health in Children 6 to 9

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Wholesome Psychology, Alberta, CA
Author: wholesome
Date: November 30, 2024

Supporting Mental Health for Children Aged 6 to 9 Years

As children transition into the school system, they face a host of new challenges. For many, this marks the first time away from home for extended periods, introducing a structured environment with heightened expectations. Learning new concepts, being tested on them, and navigating social relationships with peers can create stress for some children. It’s also during this stage that developmental delays or disorders may begin to surface, leading to feelings of isolation or frustration as they may struggle to keep up with their classmates.

Beyond academic stress, external events and circumstances—such as trauma, abuse, anxiety, grief, or family struggles—can significantly impact a child’s emotional well-being. Recognizing the signs early and seeking support can make a profound difference in helping children navigate these challenges.

Common Reasons Children Aged 6 to 9 May Face Mental Health Struggles

There are many factors that can affect the mental health of children in this age group. These include:

  • Struggling with school performance or learning difficulties
  • Challenges with making or maintaining friendships
  • High anxiety related to school tests, sports, or extracurricular activities
  • Experiencing loss, such as the death of a family member or pet
  • Experiencing major life changes, such as divorce or separation
  • Exposure to trauma, abuse, or neglect
  • Living in conditions of extreme poverty or food insecurity
  • Facing developmental disorders (e.g., ADHD, autism spectrum disorders)
  • Struggling with mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression

While children may not always have the words to express what they are feeling, their emotional and behavioral responses can be a powerful indicator of their struggles. It is important for parents and caregivers to be aware of these signs and seek support when necessary.

Recognizing Symptoms and Signs of Mental Health Challenges

Children experiencing mental health issues may exhibit a variety of emotional and physical symptoms. These can include:

Emotional Symptoms:

  • Excessive fears or phobias
  • Reverting to earlier developmental stages (e.g., thumb-sucking or bedwetting)
  • Difficulty concentrating in school or during activities
  • Frequent mood swings
  • Persistent feelings of sadness or irritability
  • Behavioral changes, such as acting out or withdrawing
  • Engaging in self-destructive behavior (e.g., self-harm or aggression)

Physical Symptoms:

  • Frequent nightmares or difficulty sleeping
  • Loss of appetite or overeating
  • Frequent stomach aches or headaches
  • Difficulty focusing or concentrating
  • Unexplained changes in sleeping habits

When Is It Time to Seek Help?

If you notice changes in your child’s behavior—whether through emotional outbursts, withdrawal, or difficulties in school—it may be time to seek support. Other signs that it’s time to reach out for help include:

  • Increased severity or frequency of emotional struggles
  • Isolation from peers or difficulty with friendships
  • Behavioral disruptions at home or school
  • Recent trauma, such as the loss of a loved one or exposure to abuse

Addressing mental health concerns early can help children build resilience and coping strategies, setting them up for a healthier, happier future.

Effective Treatment Methods for Children Aged 6 to 9

There are various therapeutic approaches that can effectively address mental health and developmental concerns in young children. Depending on your child’s individual needs, your therapist may suggest one or more of the following:

Play Therapy:

Play therapy is a well-established method that allows children to express themselves through play, using toys, games, and activities. This approach offers children a safe space to explore their feelings and experiences in a way that is developmentally appropriate and non-threatening.

Art Therapy:

Art therapy uses creative expression to help children process their emotions and thoughts. This is particularly effective for children who may have difficulty articulating their feelings with words.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

CBT helps children understand how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are connected. This evidence-based approach equips children with practical tools to manage anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing):

EMDR is a therapeutic technique designed to help children process and heal from trauma by using bilateral stimulation (e.g., guided eye movements) to reframe distressing memories and experiences.

Family Therapy:

Effective therapy for young children often involves the family. Family therapy focuses on improving communication, addressing relational dynamics, and providing support for the child’s emotional needs. Techniques such as Structural Family Therapy help identify and address underlying family issues that may be contributing to a child’s distress.

Your therapist may also recommend additional support, such as parenting programs or couples counseling, to ensure the family unit can support the child’s healing journey.

How Wholesome Psychology Can Help

At Wholesome Psychology, we understand the importance of early intervention and compassionate care for children facing mental health challenges. Our team of licensed therapists specializes in working with children and families, offering personalized therapy plans designed to address each child’s unique needs. We work collaboratively with parents to ensure they have the tools and resources to support their child’s emotional well-being.

With our flexible therapy options, including in-person and remote sessions, we make it easy for families to access the care they need. We also offer a 50% discount on the first session, giving you an opportunity to find the right therapist to meet your child’s needs in a comfortable, supportive environment.

If you are concerned about your child’s mental health or would like to learn more about our services, Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward supporting your child’s mental and emotional growth.

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