What is childhood depression?
Childhood depression is more than just the emotional ups and downs that every child experiences. Like depression in adults, childhood depression is a mood disorder that interferes with daily life. Childhood depression is a continual sadness, though occasionally it may be manifested in angry outbursts. Experts say that as many as three out of every one hundred children under the age of thirteen have depression. This number may be low because parents often don’t recognize the signs and symptoms in their children.
What are the signs and symptoms of childhood depression?
The symptoms of childhood depression include, but are not limited to:
- Persistent sadness and crying
- Little or no interest in activities that were once enjoyable
- Social isolation
- Significantly decreased or increased appetite
- Poor grades or acting out in school
- Significant sleep changes (either insomnia or excessive sleep)
- Complaints of pain in the stomach or head
- Frequent temper tantrums or angry outbursts
- Extreme guilt or fear of rejection
- Attempts or talk of running away
- Talk of death or suicide
- Giving away toys or other possessions (as a sign of suicidal thoughts)
Your child may exhibit one or more of these symptoms, or you may notice other behavior that is out of the ordinary for your child. Trust your instincts. If you feel your child is depressed, seek help immediately.
Who is at risk?
Children who have experienced the loss of a loved one, moved to a new place or gone through a divorce are more likely to develop depression. There is also a higher instance of depression among children who have attention, anxiety or learning disabilities. Depression tends to run in families, and boys are more likely than girls to become depressed, though this statistic reverses after the age of sixteen. Certain pain relief medications (such as narcotics) may also trigger depression.
What is the treatment for childhood depression?
Counseling is pivotal for children who suffer from depression. The child’s therapist may recommend individual and/or family counseling. It is important for parents to be very involved in their child’s therapy, as children often have a difficult time identifying their feelings. In addition to talk therapy, medication may be needed. These medications are usually safe, but certain children may have increased thoughts of suicide as a result of the medicine. Your child’s doctor can explain these risks to you, though usually the benefits outweigh the risks.
Is childhood depression preventable?
Because depression is due to a chemical imbalance in the brain, it is not preventable, but it is treatable. Circumstances outside of the parent’s control can trigger depression in a child. The best thing you can do for your child is be educated and aware of the signs and symptoms of depression, and be an active part in their treatment, but more importantly, their lives.
