Blended Families: When It’s Time to Seek Professional Help

Red Flags for Kids:

• Ongoing or escalating misbehavior at home or school.


• Falling grades.


• Angry outbursts at anyone in the situation.


• A pattern of crying easily or often, even when things in the household have settled into a steady routine.


• Difficulties with sleep or eating, whether too much or not enough.


• Repeated stomachaches, headaches, sore throats or other stress symptoms.


• Ongoing arguing between any family members.


• Noticeable personality changes in kids of any age.


• Spending lots of time away from the house.


• Becoming increasingly withdrawn, not talking with anyone in the house.


• Kids reporting negative comments and conversations from the other household.

Red Flags for Adults:

• Angry outbursts at anyone in the situation.


• Increasing or ongoing arguments.


• Obvious differences in the discipline or treatment of stepchildren versus biological kids.


• Withdrawing or refusing to discuss situations in the household.


• Difficulties with food or sleep, or other stress-related symptoms.


• Increased use of alcohol or other unproductive coping skills.


• Feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, crying a lot.


• Struggles and conflicts about money.

Read more: The Blended Family: Rules & Consequences