Psychologist Burlington: Early Childhood Mental Health

 The first childhood experiences between 0-5 years shape the developing brain and lay the foundation of the child’s mental health. Any disruption to this development process might interfere with the child’s capability to learn and relate with others. If you want to seek the services of psychologist Burlington regarding your child’s mental health here are more insights.

Mental Health Problems do occur in children.

At a very early age, children can show the characteristics of disorders such as anxiety, depression, attention deficit, conduct, post-traumatic stress, and neuro development issues such as autism. While these disorders are similar to what is experienced in adulthood, children process and respond to traumatic events and emotional experiences differently than older children or adults. Moreover, early childhood mental health diagnosis is much more difficult.

The interaction between experiences and genes determines childhood mental health.

Unlike what most people think, genes are not destiny determiners. While they contain instructions on how the body should operate, the environment acts as the chemical signature that prevents or authorizes the instruction. Therefore, a combination of stress-inducing experiences and the sustained genetic pre-disposition might create an unstable mental foundation that might grow into adulthood. Consequently, taking your child to a psychologist Burlington is essential if you suspect they have unstable mental health.

Toxic stress damages the brain texture

Due to its interference with brain development, toxic stress impairs developmental milestones such as school readiness, personal relationships, academic performance, and mental and physical well-being throughout their lives. Children exposed to persistent poverty, domestic violence, chronic neglect, parental mental health, or substance abuse are more likely to suffer from early childhood mental health.

While it is never too late to consult a psychologist Burlington, starting earlier has more benefits.Some children have higher chances of recovering from emotional harm, trauma, and persistent maltreatment.