August is National Wellness Month, a month dedicated to prioritizing whole body wellness including both emotional and mental health. While most wellness conversations focus on physical habits like hydration, sleep, and exercise, mental well-being is equally as important, especially for children and teens. This period of time is a really powerful reminder for caregivers to pause and reflect: How is my child really doing?
In this blog, we’re offering a parent guide to mental health—a compassionate, supportive look at the behavioral and emotional signs that may indicate a young person is struggling. We’ll also share how Western Youth Services (WYS) can help, and provide resources to deepen your understanding of child mental health and emotional wellness.
Why National Wellness Month Matters for Kids
National Wellness Month encourages people of all ages to develop healthy habits that improve their overall quality of life. For youth, that includes building emotional resilience, learning to regulate feelings, and feeling safe enough to ask for help when something just doesn’t feel quite right.
Mental health is a key component of overall wellness at any age. According to a report done by the Child Mind Institute, of the 74.5 million children in the United States, an estimated 17.1 million have or have had a diagnosable psychiatric disorder. This report also found that 80 percent of kids with an anxiety disorder do not receive any treatment. When caregivers know exactly what to look for, they can help their children get the support they need sooner.
Behavioral and Emotional Signs Your Child Might Need Support
Every child is different, and may showcase different signs and symptoms of a mental health disorder. However, there are common signs that may signal a young person is experiencing emotional distress. Recognizing these things early is a crucial step in supporting your child’s well being.
1. Changes in Mood or Personality
- Ongoing sadness, irritability, or anger
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or favorite activities
- Increased sensitivity or difficulty handling everyday stress
2. Behavioral Shifts
- Difficulty concentrating or sudden drop in school performance
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Acting out, aggression, or risk-taking behavior
3. Physical Complaints
- Frequent headaches or stomach aches without a medical cause
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Complaints of “not feeling right” with no visible symptoms
4. Expressions of Hopelessness or Anxiety
- Verbalizing feelings of worthlessness or fear
- Saying things like “I can’t do anything right” or “No one cares”
- Increased worry, perfectionism, or avoidance of specific situations
5. Regression in Younger Children
- Bedwetting, clinginess, or excessive tantrums
- Separation fear or reluctance to attend school
These behaviors do not always mean that there is a mental health condition present. But they are important signals that your child may need extra support. Kids’ mental health awareness begins with working on listening and observing with empathy and care.
How Western Youth Services Can Help
At Western Youth Services, we believe every young person deserves to feel safe, supported, and empowered to thrive. We work hard to provide evidence based, trauma informed mental health services that are accessible, inclusive, and tailored to youth and families across Orange County.
Our Programs Include:
School-Based Services
WYS offers on-site support in schools, allowing students to receive counseling and care during the school day in an environment familiar to them.
Early Intervention and Prevention Programs
We help children and families build strong foundations before small concerns become larger issues. This includes skill-building workshops and behavioral support.
Trauma Informed Counseling
Our clinicians are highly trained to recognize and respond to the effects of trauma with compassion, creating safe spaces for healing.
Family and Caregiver Support
We offer both guidance and resources to parents and guardians so they can better understand and respond to their child’s mental health needs.
Whether your child is facing a new challenge or has been struggling for a while, WYS is here to help. Our services are confidential and focused on whole child wellness because supporting children’s mental health supports their future.
Taking Action for Kids Mental Health Awareness
National Wellness Month is a great opportunity to check in with your child and normalize conversations focused around mental health. You don’t need to be an expert to be a safe and supportive presence for your children. Listening without judgment, showing up consistently, and seeking professional help when needed can make a world of difference.
If you’re unsure whether your child’s behaviors are cause for concern, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
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