Ways To Check Your Child's Mental Health With Dr. Stevan Lahr

The CDC says about one out of six school-aged children suffer from a mental health disorder.

That means for every class of 24 students, there are four who need your help.

Do you know if your child is one of those four? Dr. Stevan Lahr with Family and Children Services of Oklahoma joined News On 6 at 4 p.m. on Tuesday to discuss ways you can keep up with your child's mental well-being.

Stacia: Why is it important to check in and do a mental health check on our students?

Dr. Lahr: Mental health disorders, like depression, anxiety and ADHD commonly start before the age of 14; however, less than half of youth who experience mental health conditions get any type of treatment. Depending on the age group, death by suicide is either the number one or two cause of death in this population, so it is important to educate ourselves on mental health and wellness. Like most health conditions, the earlier we can identify and treat, the better the outcomes.

Stacia: What should be asking or looking for when we are checking on the mental health of our students?

Dr. Lahr: Signs that perhaps we are struggling include- unexpected mood swings, withdrawal from social functions, and poor sleep. Some questions that you can ask, depending on the age of your student, can be as simple as how are you feeling? Tell me what you like the most/least about school or weekends. Doing regular, brief check-ins will help ID changes quickly. Don’t forget your college students, send them a text and check on them, midterms are almost here.

Stacia: What if your student tells you that they are not doing well, what is the next step?

Dr. Lahr: Always stay calm, let them know that they are supported and partner with them to get help. Most public schools have imbedded mental health therapists and colleges have onsite clinics that you can connect your students to. If you are concerned that it is urgent and you are not sure what the next step should be you can call COPES at 918-744-4800. COPES helps people of all ages get into mental health treatment.