Problem Severity Guidelines
In order to judge the severity of a
child's emotional, behaviour or mental health problems use the following
guidelines. If you feel that the problem/s is more severe than slight consult a
mental health professional, doctor or qualified play therapist as soon as
possible.
Degree
|
Impact
|
Examples
|
Slight
|
Temporary impairment of well-being; minor loss of functioning.
|
Hospitalisation for a minor operation.
|
Mild
|
Some loss of well-being, ongoing impairment of functioning preventing
the child reaching their full potential.
|
Unresolved relationship issues: friendships, sibling rivalries.
|
Moderate
|
Child feels emotionally unwell, considerable impairment of functioning,
problems need to be dealt with promptly to prevent further deterioration.
|
Stress and trauma – e.g. parents are in the process of divorcing and the
family is injured in a road accident.
|
Severe
|
Mental illness or disorder child at risk and unable to function as a
normal person.
|
Repeated physical and sexual abuse from several sources.
|
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