Parenting Perspective 

Recognising when a child might need professional support can feel daunting for any parent. Many parents worry about overreacting, while at the same time fearing that they might wait too long to seek help. It is natural to feel unsure, but having some clear markers can help you to act with confidence and compassion. Seeking a GP review or counselling is not a sign of failure; it is a proactive step in caring for your child’s emotional, behavioural, and physical well-being. 

Look for Persistent Changes in Behaviour 

It is important to pay attention to consistent patterns rather than isolated incidents. You might consider seeking professional guidance if you notice any of the following: 

• Ongoing changes in your child’s sleep, appetite, or energy levels that last for more than two weeks. 

• Heightened anxiety, fear, or irritability that begins to interfere with their daily routines. 

• A noticeable withdrawal from friends, family, or activities that they would normally enjoy. 

• Frequent panic episodes, mood swings, or emotional outbursts that seem disproportionate to the events that trigger them. 

These persistent changes can suggest that your child’s nervous system may need some extra support that is beyond the scope of typical parenting strategies. 

Observe Both Physical and Behavioural Symptoms 

Sometimes, a child’s emotional struggles can manifest in physical ways. Some indicators to monitor include: 

• Frequent complaints of headaches, stomach aches, or other unexplained physical pains. 

• A sudden difficulty in concentrating, a drop in academic performance, or a new reluctance to go to school. 

• Any mention of self-harm, repeated negative thoughts, or expressions of hopelessness. 

If you notice these signs, a GP can help to rule out any underlying medical issues, while a counsellor can provide your child with coping tools that are tailored to their age and temperament. 

Trust Your Parental Intuition 

Ultimately, you know your child best. If something feels consistently ‘off’, or if you sense a growing distress in your child that your home strategies cannot seem to ease, it is always wise to seek professional support. Documenting behaviours, triggers, and your responses can also help health professionals to provide more effective guidance. 

By paying attention to patterns, physical cues, and your own instincts, you can create a structured approach for deciding when professional help is needed. This ensures that your child’s well-being is prioritised without any unnecessary delay or worry. 

Spiritual Insight 

Seeking help for our children aligns perfectly with the Islamic principles of the preservation of the self and overall well-being. Islam encourages us to use the resources that Allah Almighty has placed in the world, including healthcare and counselling, to protect the life, the mind, and the heart. 

Protecting Life and Well-being 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 195: 

‘And expend (your wealth) in the pathway of Allah (Almighty), and do not let your actions place you in a (state of) destruction (by being miserly)…’ 

This verse reminds us that we have a duty to safeguard ourselves and our families from all forms of harm, whether they are physical or emotional. 

The Principle of Seeking Ease 

It is recorded in Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 4835, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Make things easy, and do not make them difficult.’ 

By recognising when professional intervention is needed for a child, parents are acting in a responsible and loving way to safeguard their emotional, physical, and spiritual development. Seeking counselling or a GP review is not just a practical step; it is an act of care that honours the trust (amanah) that Allah Almighty has placed in you as a guardian of your child’s well-being.