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 |
