Depression : Signs in Children
Children, like adults also suffer from depression, although their symptoms may not be the same. Additionally, children respond well to treatment. Depression is defined as persistent feelings of sadness that interfere with a child or adolescent’s ability to function normally.
About 5 percent of children and adolescents in the general population suffer from depression at any given point in time. Children under stress, who experience loss, or who have attention problems, learning, conduct or anxiety disorders are at a higher risk for depression. Depression also tends to run in families.
The behavior of depressed children and teenagers may differ from the behavior of depressed adults. Child and adolescent psychiatrists advise parents to be aware of signs of depression in their youngsters.
If one or more of these signs of depression persist, parents should seek help:
Frequent sadness, tearfulness, crying
Hopelessness
Decreased interest in activities; or inability to enjoy previously favorite activities
Persistent boredom; low energy
Social isolation, poor communication
Low self esteem and guilt
Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure
Increased irritability, anger, or hostility
Difficulty with relationships
Frequent complaints of physical illnesses such as headaches and stomachaches
Frequent absences from school or poor performance in school
School refusal
Poor concentration
A major change in eating and/or sleeping patterns
Talk of or efforts to run away from home
Thoughts or expressions of suicide or self destructive behavior
A child who used to play often with friends may now spend most of the time alone and without interests. Things that were once fun now bring little joy to the depressed child. Children and adolescents who are depressed may say they want to be dead or may talk about suicide. Depressed children and adolescents are at increased risk for committing suicide. Depressed adolescents may abuse alcohol or other drugs as a way to feel better.
Children and adolescents who cause trouble at home or at school may also be suffering from depression. Because the youngster may not always seem sad, parents and teachers may not realize that troublesome behavior is a sign of depression. When asked directly, these children can sometimes state they are unhappy or sad.
Some Consequences of Depression
Once a young person has experienced an episode of depression, he or she is at risk for developing another episode of depression within the next 5 years (Center for Mental Health Services).
Depression in childhood may predict more severe depressive illness in adulthood (National Institute of Mental Health).
Depression in children and adolescents is associated with an increased risk for suicidal behaviors (National Institute of Mental Health).
What can Parents/Caregivers Do?
If parents or other adults in a young person’s life suspect a problem with depression, they should: Know the warning signs of depression and note how long problems have been going on, how often they occur, and how severe they seem. See a mental health professional or the child’s doctor for evaluation and diagnosis. Call us at (813) 468-6528 for a free consultation. GET HELP! Depression is treatable. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for depressed children. Depression is a real illness that requires professional help.
(This information has been made available by the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry)
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