COVID Resources for Young People
Normal Behavior vs. Warning Signs
Adolescence can be a complicated and challenging time in the life of a child. It is common and expected for teenagers to have periodic struggles with self-esteem, identity, peer relationships, and emotional regulation. But at what point does normal behavior turn into a warning sign or a more significant concern?
All young people are different, but these signs can indicate that your child is struggling with a more significant mental health issue:
- Missing days in school or poor school performance
- Avoiding friends and social activities
- Loss of interest in hobbies, sports, or activities previously enjoyed
- Lack of motivation for fun activities
- Sleep disruptions, including insomnia and nightmares
- Lack of focus on tasks, or inability to sit still
- Seemingly anxious or worried all the time
- Lack of energy or sleeping more than usual
- Constant irritability or agitation
- Engaging in risk-taking behaviors
- Smoking, vaping, drinking or drug use
- Self-harming behaviors, such as cutting, picking, burning, or hair pulling
- Having suicidal thoughts or actionsAs parents, you know your child best. If you notice a marked change in your child’s behavior, please reach out to your child’s doctor, school counselor, or a mental health professional for guidance.
In the event of a mental health emergency, please contact the agencies below or dial 911 and/or proceed to your nearest emergency room.
Jackson County Mental Health
After Hours Emergency 911 816-842-7055 www.jacksoncountycares.org
Johnson County Mental Health
After Hours Emergency 913-286-0156 913-715-7700 www.mentalhealth.joco.org
Marillac
913-681-5437
www.marillac.org
Research Medical Center- Adolescent Behavioral Health Services
Access Center: 844-207-4511 Phone: 816-444-8161 ResearchPsychiatricCenter.com
Preferred County Health Care
Phone: 816-767-8090
http://pfh.org/locations-details?q=community-of-the-good-shepherd
Swope Mental Health
Phone: 816-922-1070
Truman Behavioral Health
Phone Kansas City: 816-404-5709
Phone Lee’s Summit: 816-404-6170 https://www.trumed.org/services/behavioral-health/
Comprehensive-Independence
Phone: 816-254-3652
ReDiscover
816-966-0900