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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, on going 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 – eg 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

Return to: Deciding What to Do    Conditions that play therapy can help


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