As parents and caregivers, we want the best for our children. It’s natural to wonder at times if their behaviors, moods, or choices are just part of growing up—or if they may be signs of something more serious. While every child is different, paying attention to warning signs can help you catch potential concerns early and take steps to support your child’s health and well-being.
Why Warning Signs Matter
Children and teens go through many changes as they grow. Some ups and downs are expected—but when changes are intense, long-lasting, or affect daily life, they may signal a deeper issue such as anxiety, depression, bullying, substance use, or other mental health concerns. Recognizing the signs early gives you the chance to step in with love, guidance, and support.
General Warning Signs to Look For
These are common signals that your child may be struggling:
- Behavior changes – Acting out, withdrawing, or suddenly changing friend groups.
- Mood swings – Intense irritability, sadness, or anger that doesn’t seem to go away.
- School difficulties – Drop in grades, skipping school, or lack of interest in learning.
- Loss of interest – No longer enjoying activities they used to love.
- Changes in sleep or appetite – Sleeping too much or too little, sudden weight gain/loss.
- Physical complaints – Frequent headaches, stomachaches, or other unexplained symptoms.
- Risk-taking – Experimenting with alcohol, drugs, unsafe online activity, or dangerous behaviors.
Age-Specific Warning Signs
Young Children (Ages 3–9)
- Extreme tantrums or outbursts beyond what’s typical for their age
- Trouble making or keeping friends
- Frequent complaints of physical pain with no clear cause
- Regression (e.g., bedwetting after being potty trained)
Preteens (Ages 10–12)
- Sudden changes in school performance or attendance
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
- Avoiding social activities or family time
- Talking about worries, fears, or feeling worthless
Teens (Ages 13–18)
- Expressions of hopelessness, guilt, or self-criticism
- Risky or rebellious behavior (e.g., reckless driving, unsafe sex)
- Excessive use of technology or isolation from friends/family
- Use of alcohol, vaping, or drugs
- Talking about death, dying, or self-harm
What To Do If You Notice Warning Signs
- Look. Listen. Love.
Pay attention to the changes you’re seeing, listen to what your child is saying (and not saying), and remind them they are loved and not alone. - Start a conversation.
Use calm, open-ended questions:- “I’ve noticed you seem upset lately—want to talk about it?”
- “You don’t seem to enjoy basketball like you used to. What’s going on?”
- Seek support.
- Reach out to teachers, coaches, or other trusted adults for additional perspective.
- Contact your child’s doctor, school counselor, or a mental health professional if concerns continue.
- If your child talks about self-harm or suicide, take it seriously. Call or text 988 right away for immediate support.
Remember
Not every warning sign means something is wrong—but noticing patterns and acting early can make all the difference. Trust your instincts, stay connected, and keep showing up with patience and love.
Behavioral Health Program Directory
The Behavioral Health Program Directory is a single place where people in North Dakota can find mental health services that fit their needs.. This registry allows users to:
- Search by location and other details
- View program information, including program name, address, and phone number
Public Behavioral Health Clinics
North Dakota Health and Human Services operates eight regional behavioral health clinics across the state.
These clinics provide mental health services to people in North Dakota. Each clinic serves a specific group of counties in its region.
Minor in Possession (MIP) Education Program
Early intervention is an important part of mental health and substance use support. It helps reduce risky behaviors, like alcohol and drug use.
Research shows that people who start drinking alcohol before age 15 are four times more likely to develop alcohol use problems later in life compared to those who start at age 21.