A recent study from JAMA Pediatrics showed 1 in 6 American children have a mental health disorder, such as anxiety, depression or ADHD. Often, children diagnosed with mental health disorders are prescribed medication to treat their condition. These medications can have side effects on the children using them. Pills, such as Adderall, which is used to treat ADHD, can cause sleeplessness, nervousness and weight loss. As people become more aware of mental health problems and medication becomes a common treatment for children, people must pause and ask themselves, “Is medication really the answer?”
The best way for a parent to help a child who may be suffering from a mental health disorder is to introduce them to a new hobby. In many instances, a child dealing with a mental health issue can benefit from learning a new skill. Activities, such as playing an instrument, learning how to draw, reading or any other productive activity they have a genuine interest in, have the potential to focus their energy positively and show them the world has good things to offer. Not all mental health issues can be cured with a hobby, but a positive outlet can only help. People must consider, with children spending more of their free time online, a child still has a natural need for real world interactions.
If someone has been prescribed medication for a mental health issue, they should take their medication. Medication is necessary for some kids. Anyone who completely disavows modern medicine is doing more harm than good. The advances of medication aside, there are such things as over medication and unnecessary medication. Before someone places their child on a prescription for mental health, they should strongly consider taking the extra time to help their children discover an interest and should figure out if their child is actually engaged with the physical world in a positive way. People should ask themselves about their child’s hobbies and if they could be causing the problem.
In some cases, a child’s anxiety, depression or ADHD is not a lifelong struggle but the result of a young person with the wrong creative outlets. If such a child can find the proper paths to follow, the symptoms that led to their mental health diagnosis may subside. A new passion can shape a child’s interests for years and give them the proper tools to enjoy life.
It is important to remember that life is not simple and easy. Adjusting to new environments, new social expectations and the physical changes children all experience cause many of the symptoms associated with common mental health disorders. In a busy, tech-driven world, people forget the benefits of positive real-world interactions. Medication is a great thing and should be used, but as a last resort. Parents should consider the benefits of positive interactions with the real world, the benefits of hobbies and the side effects of prescription medication before putting their kids on medication.
Photo by Maria Pericozzi | The Oswegonian
