Caring for the Whole Child: Mental & Emotional Well-Being
For children in foster care, experiences of abuse, neglect, separation, and abandonment can deeply affect their mental and emotional well-being. These experiences may leave children feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or as though a part of them is missing.
As a CASA volunteer, you play an important role in helping a child feel seen, heard, and supported. This resource section provides information and tools to help you better understand children's mental health needs, recognize signs that a child may be struggling, and advocate for the support and services they need to heal and thrive.
Recognizing Signs a Child May Be Struggling
Mental health challenges can look different depending on a child's age, developmental stage, and experiences. Changes in behavior, school performance, sleep, relationships, or emotional regulation may be signs that a child needs additional support.
You may notice:
• Increased anger or irritability
• Withdrawal or isolation
• Anxiety or fear
• Changes in sleep or eating
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sudden changes in behavior
• Difficulty trusting or connecting with others
• Feelings of hopelessness or low self-worth
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