The Columbine High School shooting did more than shock Americans about the realities of teen age violence -- its also prompted parents to pay more attention to their own children.

Mental health clinics across the country say they've seen a surge of younger patients since the shootings in Colorado.

Family Specialist Shelley Osterloh has more.

Concerned parents and teachers are seeking help for kids whom they suspect of serious emotional problems.

Some mental health clinics across the country say their calls have jumped 30% over May of last year.

The increase here in Utah isn't nearly as dramatic, -- about 10% -- but mental health experts agree that the Columbine shootings were a wake-up call.

School, law enforcement and parents in Littleton have been critcized for overlooking possible warning signs that Eric Hansen and Dylan Klebold could be violent.

That has prompted a higher awareness of teen mental problems. Jean Bramble, A.P.R.N at the U of U Neurophychiatric Institute says, "I think there is a greater sensitivy to adolenscents and older children, and the experiences and issues that they have in what is becoming an increasingly complicated environment."

Jean Bramble is part of a clinical assessment team that helps families find the right mental health care for their child.

"Where activities at living, grades, school peformance, peer relationships take a downward turn, and they don't seem to be able to get themselves out of it, that's when you look for help," she says.

In the wake of Columbine, schools are much more concerned about safety. One school district is sending some of it's at risk students to Valley Mental Health.

In the last month and a half Jordan School district has sent nine students for psycological assesment.

School counselors may be the first to recognize a problem.

Ruth Wilson, of Valley Mental Health Children's Services, says, "It is really most appropriate to refer them over to a trained professional who can evaluate, assess and then diagnose."

The National School Safety Center says these could be early warning signs of trouble:

• uncontrollable angry outbursts
• violent or suicidal threats
• preoccupation with weapons or entertainment with violent themes
• substance abuse
• few friendships
• mood swings
• depression
• sleep or appetite changes
• cruelty to animals