In order to judge the severity
of a child's emotional, behaviour or mental health problems use the
following guidelines.
If you feel that the
problem(s) is more severe than 'slight' consult a mental health
professional, doctor or qualified play therapist as soon as possible.
|
Degree |
Impact |
Examples |
|
Slight |
Temporary impairment of well being; minor
loss of functioning |
Hospitalisation for a minor operation |
|
Mild |
Some loss of well being, on going
impairment of functioning preventing the child reaching their full
potential |
Unresolved relationship issues:
friendships, sibling rivalries |
|
Moderate |
Child feels emotionally unwell,
considerable impairment of functioning, problems need to be dealt
with promptly to prevent further deterioration. |
Stress and trauma – eg parents are in the
process of divorcing and the family is injured in a road accident |
|
Severe |
Mental illness or disorder child at risk
and unable to function as a normal person. |
Repeated physical and sexual abuse from
several sources |
Return to: Deciding What to Do Conditions that play therapy can help
