It's a question that quietly lingers in many parents' and caregivers' minds perhaps your normally cheerful child has been unusually quiet. Or maybe your teenager, once outgoing and lively, appears more withdrawn or irritable by the day. You attribute it to growing pains, hormones, or school stress. But deep in your belly, a small voice whispers: Could this be something more ominous?

Maybe at last mental health is finally receiving the attention it should receive. And yet with children, it's still simple to miss the early warning signs. After all, kids don't always know how they're feeling—and sometimes their distress manifests itself in seemingly random ways, like difficulty sleeping, tantrums, or even reports of a tummy ache.

In the complex process of childhood development, mental health tends to take a backseat to worry about physical growth, vaccinations, and diet. But as there is growing awareness about emotional health worldwide, it's increasingly becoming apparent that children's mental health deserves as much concern and care as their physical health. In fact, pediatricians are now leading the way in detecting early warning signs that could indicate more serious psychological problems.

We interviewed Dr. Kushal Agrawal, Department Head of Neonatology and Paediatrics, to learn how pediatricians recognize the early warning signs of mental health issues—and why parents must never second-guess their instincts. His observations shed light on what's normal, what's not, and how early intervention can be the difference-maker in a child's life.

In keeping with the World Health Organization's findings, it is estimated that one in every six children in the 10-19 year age group suffer from a mental health condition. Experts point out that early detection and intervention are what can transform a child's life. Dr. Kushal, points out, "Being pediatricians, we are also the first stop when children exhibit slight changes in mood or behavior. While overall physical health still takes precedence, the increasing rates of mental disorders in children deserve equal priority.

What Mental Health in Children Really Means?

Child mental health is the emotional, psychological, and social well-being that determines how they think, feel, and behave. It is instrumental in enabling them to deal with stress, relate to others, and make proper choices. While physical illnesses are more apparent and can be diagnosed easily, mental health issues tend to present themselves subtly—sometimes not being noticed until they start impacting schoolwork, social interaction, or family dynamics.

A child's mental health is not fixed but changes with age, environmental factors, and biological growth. Hence, it is important to have constant interaction and monitoring in identifying red flags early.

Common Mental Health Disorders Identified in Children

Children may exhibit a range of mental health disorders that appear during different phases of their lives. These include developmental and mood as well as behavioral disorders:

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Marked by communication problems and repetitive activities, symptoms typically emerge in early childhood and greatly differ in intensity.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): ADHD is a very frequent neurodevelopmental disorder among children, commonly associated with inattention, impulsiveness, and restlessness.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): This disorder might occur after the experience or witness of a traumatic event. PTSD children tend to have difficulty with flashbacks, sleep disturbances, and emotional unresponsiveness.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Children who have OCD have uncontrollable, repetitive thoughts and acts they feel the need to repeat.

Mood Disorders: Both depression and bipolar disorder may be seen in children, usually disguised as irritability or hostility.

Developmental Disorders: These are a range of disorders involving language, behavior, and learning disorders, and usually require early treatment.

Dr. Agrawal explains, "Mental health issues may manifest differently in children than in adults. One of the first signs is a clear change in behavior—avoidance of activities they previously enjoyed, sudden belligerence, or persistent unhappiness."

Early Warning Signs Parents Shouldn't Ignore

Getting ahead of the game starts with paying attention. Kids might not have the words or emotional maturity to describe their suffering, so their pain tends to emerge through behavior.

Behavioral Changes: Sudden moodiness, chronic irritability, or defiance can be more than a bad day. A reclusive extroverted child, or an aggressive child previously mild, warrants closer scrutiny.

Sleep and Eating Changes: Sleep disruptions—insomnia, nightmares, or hyper-sleeping—and shifts in appetite are potential precursors of emotional stress or anxiety.

Academic Struggles: A former high-achieving student might suddenly turn away from homework, face difficulty maintaining attention, or act out in class. "Decline academically is another significant signal," responds Dr. Agrawal. "A declining, previously attentive student may be quietly fighting anxiety or depression."

Physical Complaints: Persistent, unexplained headaches or stomachaches—particularly coupled with stress-producing situations—are commonly associated with emotional pain.

Regressive or Risky Behaviors: Young children can regress to previous behaviors like bedwetting or clinginess, whereas older children can indulge in risky behavior or show hopelessness.

Supporting Mental Health at Home

The home environment is a critical factor in a child's mental and emotional health. Dr. Agrawal believes in empowering parents with practical strategies that assist in creating a stable, supportive environment.

Establish Open Communication

Create a space where your child feels safe discussing emotions. Avoid rushing to solutions—instead, listen actively and validate their feelings. This reassures them that they are not alone.

Maintain Routine and Predictability

Children find comfort in structure. Regular mealtimes, bedtime routines, and household rules provide a sense of security, especially during stressful times.

Encourage Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Exercise, healthy eating, and sleep have a significant effect on mood and mental focus. Everyday family activities such as evening strolls or family meals can reinforce connections and enhance emotional well-being.

Educate Yourself and Your Child

Learning about mental health dispels the stigma. With child-friendly materials, tell your child that mental health is as vital as physical health—and that asking for help is a strength.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Accepting your child's efforts and accomplishments, however minor, increases their self-esteem and resilience. Praise effort, not perfection.

When to Seek Professional Help?

Dr. Agrawal suggests that parents "trust their instincts—if something feels 'off,' it probably is." Regular pediatric check-ups are a good time to mention concerns. Pediatricians can offer initial evaluation and refer families to child psychologists or psychiatrists, as needed.

It's crucial not to wait to seek professional help. Early intervention can lessen the severity of mental illness and provide children with coping skills that last a lifetime.

Identifying and treating children's mental health is not just a parent's job—it takes a shared effort from educators, caregivers, and healthcare providers. As awareness increases in society, so must our dedication to listening, watching, and acting early.

Dr Kushal Agrawal is HOD, Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics at KVR Hospital, Kashipur in India.

Have you ever looked at your mom and wondered, how does she do it all? From managing the morning chaos, handling work deadlines, remembering every birthday, to ensuring there’s always food on the table—mothers seem like they have some kind of superpower. And on Mother’s Day, while we shower them with love, flowers, and breakfast in bed, it’s also worth asking: at what cost does she wear this invisible cape?

Behind the warm hugs and tireless dedication lies a reality that’s often overlooked—the silent burnout that builds from trying to live up to the impossible expectations of being a “supermom.” While the world applauds her multitasking skills, very few pause to ask how she’s actually doing. Are we celebrating mothers for who they truly are, or for how well they perform under relentless pressure?

This Mother’s Day, let’s talk about the health impact of this “supermom syndrome” that’s romanticized in culture but often harmful in reality. Let’s explore how setting boundaries isn’t about stepping back, but stepping into a healthier, more sustainable version of motherhood. Because honoring mothers means more than a single day of appreciation—it means empowering them to reclaim their well-being every day.

In many homes around the world—and particularly in culturally rooted societies like India—the image of a “supermom” is not just admired, it’s expected. She is the orchestrator of meals, emotions, and milestones, all while excelling at work and showing up with poise and grace. But behind this high-functioning façade lies a serious health concern. Burnout.

“Motherhood is beautiful, but it isn’t a performance,” says Dr. Tonmoy Sharma, psychiatrist and global mental health expert. “When mothers are forced to meet unrealistic expectations day after day, they begin to internalize that they’re never doing enough—and this leads to chronic stress and exhaustion, which we now recognize as maternal burnout.”

The Health Toll of Being a Supermom

The silent pressure to ‘do it all’ is all too familiar. Mothers often find themselves navigating a never-ending checklist—well-fed children, a clean house, a successful career, cultural obligations, and emotional caregiving—while silently ignoring their own needs. Unlike dramatic breakdowns, burnout among mothers often manifests subtly.

“It doesn’t always look like a breakdown,” explains Dr. Sharma. “Sometimes, it’s emotional numbness, irritability, or a persistent sense of guilt. These are signs that the brain is overwhelmed, and the nervous system is under constant pressure.”

Long-term exposure to this stress cycle is linked to a higher risk of anxiety, depression, heart disease, and sleep disorders. Emotionally, it disconnects mothers from their children and partners, and ironically, undermines the very caregiving they work so hard to provide.

Cultural Conditioning and the Pressure to Overgive

In traditional Indian households, the mother’s identity is often intertwined with sacrifice. She is applauded for putting her family before herself, even when it means suppressing her exhaustion or mental health.

“Culturally, Indian mothers are conditioned to see overexertion as devotion. But we’re now seeing how this norm is unsustainable—and even harmful,” says Dr. Sharma.

This culture of martyrdom leaves little room for vulnerability or self-care, and many mothers suffer in silence. Asking for help is stigmatized. Rest is viewed as laziness. Saying ‘no’ is considered defiance.

Why Saying ‘No’ is Saying Yes to Health?

One of the most powerful steps a mother can take toward her mental and physical well-being is learning to set healthy boundaries. And it begins with understanding that saying “no” doesn’t equate to failure—it signifies awareness.

“Setting boundaries doesn’t mean abandoning your family. It means showing up for them in a way that is more sustainable and emotionally healthy,” notes Dr. Sharma.

That might mean communicating your needs more clearly, declining obligations when your energy is depleted, or asking for help with household responsibilities. Small actions—like taking 15 minutes in the morning for a cup of tea or letting someone else take the lead on bedtime—can begin to shift the dynamic.

How to Start Healing from Burnout?

Self-care isn’t just a trend—it’s a mental health strategy. And for mothers battling burnout, it’s crucial. Start small. Give yourself permission to leave tasks undone. Prioritize sleep. Take walks. Journal your thoughts. Most importantly, connect with someone who will listen without judgment.

“Mothers need to know that their worth isn’t based on how much they do for others. Protecting your mental health teaches your children that self-worth and well-being go hand in hand,” says Dr. Sharma.

Beyond individual strategies, the solution lies in societal and familial shifts. That includes partners sharing the invisible labor of parenting, communities that encourage rest without guilt, and workplaces that understand the invisible workload carried by mothers.

“The idea that mothers must carry it all is outdated and damaging,” Dr. Sharma adds. “What we need are healthier systems that value emotional safety, shared responsibility, and genuine support.”

If you’re reading this with a knot in your stomach, exhausted from trying to do it all—take a breath. You’re not weak, you’re not falling short. You’re just a person navigating one of life’s most complex roles.

Being a strong mother doesn’t mean sacrificing yourself entirely. It means knowing when to pause, reset, and say, “I need help.” That’s not failure—that’s resilience. As Dr. Sharma concludes, “Real strength is about honoring your limits, not erasing them.”

Dr. Tonmoy Sharma is a Psychiatrist and CEO & Founder at Merlin Health in India

Every parent waits eagerly for the day their child takes those wobbly first steps. For many, it's more than just a motor milestone—it’s symbolic of growth, independence, and progress. While the typical age range for walking spans from 8 to 24 months, the reason why some children walk earlier than others has remained an enigma—until now.

New research from a team of scientists across the University of Surrey and the University of Essex, published in Nature Human Behaviour, reveals that genetics may be a key player in determining when babies begin to walk. The study, one of the largest of its kind, analyzed genetic data from over 70,000 infants and found that nearly a quarter of the variation in the age at which children begin to walk can be explained by their DNA.

The onset of walking, termed Age of Onset of Walking (AOW) is widely recognized as a clinical marker for brain and behavioral development. Researchers conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) that examined the DNA of infants from four major European-ancestry cohorts, including the United Kingdom Medical Research Council, the Netherlands Twin Register, and the Norwegian MoBa cohort.

What they uncovered was striking- 2,525 significant genetic variants were associated with AOW, of which 11 loci remained statistically robust. Among these, certain genes were found to be strongly expressed in the brain, particularly in areas responsible for motor control like the cortex, cerebellum, and basal ganglia.

Further analysis revealed that walking later but still within the typical developmental window—was genetically linked to higher cognitive performance and reduced risk for ADHD. This suggests that a child who walks later might actually be developing brain functions that support focus and learning.

Why Walking is More a Brain Activity than Muscle?

The act of walking involves a complex interplay between muscles, balance, sensory feedback, and brain coordination. The study showed that many of the genes related to delayed walking were also enriched in processes involving neuron generation and neurogenesis—the very building blocks of brain function.

Interestingly, the researchers also identified overlaps between walking onset genes and those associated with autism, intellectual disability, and educational attainment. This does not mean that walking later is a cause for concern; rather, it highlights how intertwined motor milestones are with broader neurological development.

Moreover, the polygenic scores—an estimate of genetic predisposition—were found to correlate with brain volume and cortical folding patterns in neonatal MRI scans. This reinforces the notion that motor development may reflect deeper, genetically driven processes within the brain.

Is Late Walking a Warning Sign?

While delayed walking can sometimes point to developmental disorders, most late walkers fall within the wide spectrum of normal development. According to Professor Angelica Ronald, a senior researcher on the study, “Only a minority of late walkers have underlying neurological abnormalities. In most cases, the timing is just one part of the child’s individual developmental rhythm.”

Still, the 18-month mark remains an important pediatric checkpoint. Children who haven’t begun walking independently by then may benefit from a medical evaluation to rule out conditions like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or developmental coordination disorder.

Although genetics play a significant role, they are only one part of the story. Environmental influences—such as nutrition, gestational age, opportunity to practice movement, and cultural norms—also shape when a child learns to walk. For instance, children in cultures that emphasize early motor training often walk sooner, regardless of genetic predispositions.

Moreover, the researchers noted that their findings, while robust, were limited to populations of European ancestry. Future studies including diverse populations will help uncover whether these genetic markers are universally applicable or ethnicity-specific.

This study provides more than just a scientific breakthrough—it offers reassurance. Your baby’s timeline isn’t a race, and walking “late” might simply reflect a different kind of neurological development in progress.

Recognizing Baby Walking Styles

Babies have their own unique walking styles, and many are completely normal as their muscles and bones develop:

The Toddle: A wide-legged, deliberate style that becomes smoother over time.

The Cowboy: Bow-legged with knees apart and ankles together—a temporary phase.

The Duck: “Out-toeing” or “in-toeing” where toes point outward or inward; usually resolves with growth.

Toe Walking: Walking on tiptoes, common in early stages of walking.

Tips to Encourage Your Baby to Walk

Alongside a baby’s first smile and first word, those very first steps are a big deal. For many parents, it's an eagerly awaited milestone—camera in hand, ready to capture the magic. But behind those few wobbly steps lies months of motor development: sitting, rolling, crawling, and standing. And as this moment approaches, it’s natural to wonder—are they walking differently than other kids? Is there a way to help them along?

Here are six practical and parent-approved tips to gently support and encourage your baby’s walking journey:

1. Let Them Go Barefoot

While baby shoes are adorable, barefoot is best during those initial walking phases. Walking is a complex task, requiring your baby’s bones, tendons, and muscles to adjust and work in sync. Bare feet help your child better sense their footing and improve balance—crucial in building confidence and coordination.

2. Use Toys as Motivation

Encouragement can come in the form of fun! Hold out a toy—or even the irresistible TV remote—just out of reach to motivate your baby to take a few steps. Position yourself strategically and cheer them on as they inch closer.

3. Create a Furniture Path

Turn your living room into a mini obstacle course by placing pieces of furniture close together. This gives your little one a safe way to “cruise” from one surface to another. As they gain confidence, increase the gap between objects to gradually build strength and independence.

4. Check the Flooring

Slippery surfaces can make walking harder. Avoid glossy tiles or slick laminates early on. Opt instead for carpeted areas or lay down rugs and yoga mats for better grip and safety while they’re learning.

5. Pick the Right Push Walker

Choose a push-along walker like a trolley with blocks inside, instead of a sit-in, wheeled version. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has recommended banning sit-in baby walkers due to safety concerns. Push-along types support forward movement while helping babies develop stability and control.

6. Steady and Encourage Them Emotionally

Support matters. Position your baby against a stable surface and sit opposite them. Gently encourage them to move forward. Keep the mood upbeat with claps, songs, and smiles. Remember, babies mirror emotions—your confidence and joy fuel theirs. A tumble or two is normal—what matters is consistent encouragement.

When to Talk to Your Pediatrician?

Not all differences are concerning, but you should consult a doctor if you notice:

Asymmetry: One foot dragging, or one side moving differently than the other.

Frequent Falls: Some tripping is normal, but consistent stumbles could signal an issue.

Signs of Pain: Limping or discomfort while walking shouldn’t be ignored.

So the next time you're asked, “Is your baby walking yet?”, you can confidently say, “Not yet—and that's perfectly fine. It’s in their DNA.”

Walking is not just a physical milestone—it’s a reflection of both genetics and neurodevelopment. With nearly 25% of walking-age variability explained by genetic factors, science is now rewriting the way we understand infant development, one step at a time.

While parents often claim they do not have a favorite child, sometimes their favor is evident. Sometimes it is the kid they depend on the most, other times it is the youngest kid of the family. However, is there a specific factor parents enjoy more in their kids? After analyzing factors like age, gender and behavioral pattern, researchers found what parents favored the most in their children

In a 2025 study published by the Psychological Bulletin, researchers found that parents favor daughters. They are more likely to be the favorite, across both mothers and fathers. Firstborn children also often receive more positive attention. Additionally, children who are described as conscientious – meaning they are responsible, organized, and do what they're supposed to – are also frequently favored. These findings suggest that certain personality traits and birth order can influence how parents interact with their children, even if unintentionally.

How Did They Find Parents Favored Certain Kids

Researchers looked at the results of many different studies. They combined the findings from over two dozen research papers, including articles, school projects, and large collections of data. This allowed them to see broader patterns in how parents treat their children differently. By looking at things like how much affection parents show and how they share resources, the researchers could draw more reliable conclusions than if they had just looked at one single study. This big picture approach helps us understand the common trends in parental favoritism.

Why Did The Parents Favor These Traits

Older Siblings

Parents tend to grant older children more freedom and decision-making power, likely due to perceiving them as more mature and responsible based on their age and experience. Having navigated earlier developmental stages, they've often earned more trust, leading parents to offer greater independence compared to their younger siblings who are still learning and growing.

Daughters

Social norms and potential emotional closeness might contribute to daughters being favored. Parents may have different communication styles or expectations, possibly leading to a stronger perceived bond. While conscientiousness and agreeableness play a role overall, a general inclination towards daughters could also stem from subtle societal influences on parental perceptions and interactions.

Conscientious and Agreeable Children

Children who are responsible, organized, cooperative, and kind often experience more positive parental interactions. Their agreeable nature leads to less conflict, creating smoother relationships. These traits can make parenting easier, resulting in more praise, trust, and overall favored treatment compared to siblings who may exhibit more challenging behaviors.

Avoiding Shows Of Favoritism For Kid’s Well-Being

When children feel like they are not the favorite, it can have a real impact on their well-being. It's not just about feeling a little sad; it can affect their mental health, their relationships with others, and even how well they do in school. To make sure all their children feel equally loved and valued, parents can try a few practical things.

It's helpful for parents to regularly think about how they interact with each child. Showing interest in each child's unique hobbies and asking them open-ended questions about what's important to them can make a big difference.

Spending dedicated one-on-one time with each child and avoiding comparisons between them are also key. Encouraging a positive relationship between siblings and openly talking about everyone's needs can create a more supportive and equitable family environment.