- Who it's for
- Outside Caregiver, Whole Family
- Child / youth age
- All ages
- Geography
- National
- Action type
- Learn
- Reading time
- About 5 min
- Last verified
- August 2026
What this is
A short, non-clinical list of changes that generally warrant a conversation with a counselor, plus how to start that conversation.
Why it matters
Caregivers often wait for a crisis because they fear being judged. Earlier support is usually shorter and less disruptive.
What you should know
- Watch for sustained changes: sleep, appetite, school performance, withdrawal from friends.
- A change lasting several weeks matters more than a hard week.
- School counselors are usually the fastest free entry point.
- Asking for an evaluation is not the same as accepting a diagnosis or medication.
- Any statement about self-harm is an immediate reason to seek help, including 988.
- Children can be supported without the family disclosing every private detail.
Talk about it
Ask your child how they have been sleeping and what has been on their mind at night.
Your next step
Name one adult you would call first, and find their number now.
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