According to Dr. T. Berry Brazelton, who works in pediatrics at Harvard Medical School, the most pressing childhood disorders these days are psychological.  Depression, delinquency, obesity and anorexia are all on the rise.  And a lot of the pressure kids face is being forced on them, unwittingly, by parents.  
Dr. Brazelton says adults are so conditioned to working long hours and juggling endless task, that we don't always realize when things become hectic for our kids.  But a heavy school load, after-school sports, and other activities can really take a toll on them.  So how can you tell if your child is under too much stress?  
Here are a few signs, Courtesy of Dr. Brazelton and Family Circle magazine.

• They have a lack of humor.
• They don't play, either by themselves or with others.
• They become rebellious at unexpected times.
• They've developed sleeping or eating disorders.

Your child may also be stressed if:

• They show signs of insecurity, such as fearfulness or separation anxiety.
• They start bullying other kids and seem consistently agitated.

• Or if they use TV to withdraw from the family.
  
  If any of these describe your child, it might be time to reevaluate both their home and their school life.  Help them cut back on activities and focus on just one or two things that are truly important to their development.  Also, Brazelton says one of the best ways to take pressure off your children to appreciate them for exactly who they are.  If they're shy, don't force them to be outgoing.  If they're active, don't make them sit quietly.  Concentrate on what they're good at and let them know you're proud.   If you'd like to go further, check out the book "The Hurried Child."