When to Seek Help

Sometimes, what seems like normal childhood difficulty can turn into something more serious. In order to help students whenever and however they need it, Woodland Public Schools offers counseling services free-of-charge.

Parents and guardians should be concerned if their child:

1. Has problems in multiple areas of life, such as family relationships, academic performance, leisure activities and friendships.
2. Starts feeling bad about himself or herself, less confident or less effective.
3. Shows excessive worry about the future.
4. Expresses hopelessness.
5. Withdraws from family, friends or activities he or she used to enjoy.
6. Has a significant change in sleep habits or appetite.
7. Engages in negative behavior more frequently.
8. Has repetitive, self-destructive behaviors such as hair-pulling or skin-picking.
9. Talks about or engages in any kind of self-harm.
10. Makes comments like “I wish I weren’t here,” or “Nobody would care if I ran away.”
11. Talks explicitly about suicide.

Counselors recommend that parents trust their gut. You know your child best. If something just doesn’t feel right, trust that instinct. It’s better to go and get something checked out if you’re not sure.

For free counseling services contact Woodland school counselors Terra Pfeiffer at pfeiffet@woodlandschools.org or Christine Maggi at 360-841-2800 (Ext 2812) or
maggic@woodlandschools.org.