Depression

Depression – whether in children or adults – is a real and serious illness that usually requires professional help. Early diagnosis and treatment are important, and parents are most often the first to recognize that their child has a problem. Parents may have trouble asking for help, however, because they may blame themselves or fear that others will blame them. It may be helpful to know that about five percent of children and adolescents in the general population suffer from depression at any given time. It is unusual to see depression in preschool and early school aged children, but it does occur.

Professionals in this area can really help, and their treatment usually consists of individual and family therapy.

Recognizing depression in your child:

Many people believe that children do not experience depression, but evidence shows that even young children can and do experience depression. The signs might be different than they would for an adult, however. Here are some things to look for that can help you determine if your child is depressed:

• Frequent sadness, tearfulness, or crying
• Hopelessness
• Less interest in activities and friends
• Frequent complaints of physical illness, such as headaches or stomach aches
• Change in eating or sleeping patterns
• Increased irritability or anger
• Change in activity level, either more or less
• Thoughts of, or talking about, death, suicide, or self-destructive behavior
• Trouble concentrating
• Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure
• Low self-esteem
• Talk of or efforts to run away
• A change in school performance
• Isolation such as staying in room and avoiding family contact
• Fascination with violent/destructive games