ABSTRACT

This chapter argues that when to seek help for a child's mental health is not always a straightforward decision. Many isolated symptoms like nightmares or oppositional behaviours will settle over time with reassurance and simple techniques such as behavioural charts. When a few of those problems persevere and begin to impact on the child's life, carers and professionals involved need to keep a close eye on the child and consider strategies, often in coordination between home and school. Mainstream services are primarily designed for children and families living in relative stability. The entry routes of mainstream services make 'stability' assumptions, for example, that the child is registered with or will visit a family doctor to instigate a referral or that the child attends school. Children exposed to trauma and other adversities are more likely to have more than one mental health problem. The chapter provides a case study of Billy, who had suffered physical abuse and neglect in earlier life.