Surreal illustration of a child's mental health with a supportive adult.

Is Your Preschooler Struggling? Spotting ADHD and Mental Health Challenges Early On

Theo Raines in Mind & Education August 2025 • 3 min read.

"A Gaza Strip Study Reveals Key Insights into Preschooler Mental Health, Offering Guidance for Parents and Educators"

The preschool years are a crucial time for development, but they can also be a period where mental health challenges begin to surface. While many studies focus on older children, understanding the mental well-being of preschoolers is vital for early intervention and support.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other mental health issues can significantly impact a child's ability to learn, socialize, and thrive. Recognizing the signs early on is essential for providing the necessary help and creating a supportive environment.

A recent study conducted in the Gaza Strip sheds light on the prevalence of ADHD and mental health problems among preschool children. This research offers valuable insights for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals, highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention.

Understanding the Scope of the Problem: ADHD and Mental Health in Preschoolers

Surreal illustration of a child's mental health with a supportive adult.

The study, led by Abdelaziz M Thabet, investigated the prevalence of ADHD and other mental health concerns among 398 randomly selected preschool children in the Gaza Strip. Parents and teachers used standardized questionnaires (SDQ and ADHD rating scales) to assess the children's behavior and emotional well-being.

The findings revealed that a significant percentage of children displayed psychiatric morbidity, according to both parents and teachers. Specifically, the study highlighted the following:

According to mothers, 28.4% of children showed signs of psychiatric morbidity.
Specific issues included conduct problems (45.8%), emotional problems (14.2%), peer relationship problems (46%), hyperactivity (33.8%), and prosocial problems (15.1%).
Teachers reported that 46.7% of the children displayed psychiatric morbidity.
Common issues observed by teachers included conduct problems (45.8%), emotional problems (11.6%), peer relationship problems (55.8%), hyperactivity (15.3%), and prosocial behavior problems (31.2%).

The study also found that boys were more likely to exhibit hyperactivity than girls, according to parent reports. Furthermore, a significant number of children met the criteria for different types of ADHD, including inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined types, based on both parent and teacher assessments.

Empowering Parents and Educators: Taking Actionable Steps

The study emphasizes the need for increased awareness and support for preschool children struggling with ADHD and mental health challenges. By providing training for parents and teachers, promoting early detection, and creating supportive environments, we can help these children thrive and reach their full potential. If you have concerns about your preschooler's behavior or emotional well-being, don't hesitate to seek professional guidance and support.

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Everything You Need To Know

What is the main focus of the Gaza Strip study regarding preschool children?

The study, led by Abdelaziz M Thabet, primarily focuses on determining the prevalence of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other mental health issues among preschool children in the Gaza Strip. It uses standardized questionnaires completed by parents and teachers to assess children's behavior and emotional well-being. The goal is to provide insights that can help with early detection and support for these children.

What specific tools were used in the study to assess mental health issues in preschoolers?

The study utilized standardized questionnaires, specifically the SDQ (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire) and ADHD rating scales. Parents and teachers completed these questionnaires to evaluate the children's behavior and emotional state. These tools helped to identify conduct problems, emotional problems, peer relationship difficulties, hyperactivity, and prosocial behavior problems, providing a comprehensive view of the children's mental health.

How did the findings of the Gaza Strip study differ between parents and teachers in identifying mental health concerns?

The study revealed some differences in the observations made by parents and teachers. According to mothers, 28.4% of children showed signs of psychiatric morbidity, while teachers reported this figure as 46.7%. Both groups identified similar types of issues, including conduct problems and emotional problems, but the prevalence rates varied. For instance, teachers reported higher rates of peer relationship problems (55.8%) compared to parents (46%). The differences highlight the importance of gathering information from multiple sources to get a comprehensive understanding of a child's mental health.

What were the key behavioral and emotional issues identified in preschool children within the Gaza Strip study?

The study identified several key issues. Conduct problems and peer relationship problems were frequently noted by both parents and teachers. Emotional problems, hyperactivity, and prosocial behavior problems were also prevalent. Specifically, parents and teachers noted varying degrees of emotional problems, conduct issues, and hyperactivity. The study also found boys were more likely to exhibit hyperactivity than girls based on parent reports. These findings underscore the range of challenges that preschool children may experience and the importance of targeted interventions.

How can the findings of the Gaza Strip study be used to support preschool children struggling with ADHD and other mental health challenges?

The study's findings emphasize the need for increased awareness, early detection, and supportive environments for preschool children facing mental health challenges. By providing training for parents and teachers, promoting early detection through tools like the SDQ and ADHD rating scales, and creating supportive environments, these children can thrive. Recognizing the signs of ADHD and mental health problems early allows for timely interventions that can significantly impact a child's ability to learn, socialize, and thrive. Seeking professional guidance and support is crucial for parents and educators who have concerns about a preschooler's behavior or emotional well-being.