Childhood Depression


Is it possible that a child can suffer from depression?

Yes. Childhood depression differs from the normal “blues” and everyday emotions that occur as a child develops. When a child seems sad, it doesn’t mean he or she has significant depression. However, when sadness becomes disruptive enough to interfere with a child’s normal social activities, interests, schoolwork, or family life, it may indicate depression. Keep in mind, however, that while depression can be a serious illness, it is a very treatable one.

How can I tell if my child is depressed?

The primary symptoms of depression usually revolve around sadness, a feeling of hopelessness, and severe mood swings and changes. While symptoms of depression in children may vary greatly and even be overlooked, emotional and psychological swings of growth and puberty may mask what is really depression. Children may complain of feeling sick, refuse to go to school, cling to a parent or caregiver, or worry excessively that a parent may die. Older children and teens may sulk, get into trouble at school, be negative or grouchy, or feel misunderstood. Earlier medical studies of depression in children focused on “masked” depression, usually evidenced by acting out and angry behavior. While this does occur, many children display sadness or a low mood similar to that of adults suffering from depression.

Signs of depression in children can be one of, or include many of the symptoms listed below.

  • Irritability or anger over and above the norm
  • Continuous feelings of sadness and hopelessness
  • Social withdrawal
  • Increased sensitivity to rejection
  • Increased or decreased appetite
  • Sleeplessness or excessive sleep
  • Vocal outbursts or crying
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Fatigue and low energy
  • Physical complaints (stomachaches, headaches) that don’t respond to treatment
  • Reduced ability to function during events and activities at home or with friends, in school, extracurricular activities, and in other hobbies or interests
  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
  • Impaired thinking or concentration
  • Thoughts of or talks about death or suicide

Not all children will present all of these symptoms. Most display different symptoms at different times in different settings. Although some children function reasonably well in structured environments, most children with significant depression suffer noticeable changes in social activities, loss of interest in school and poor academic performance, or a change in appearance. Children, especially those over the age of 12, may also begin experimenting with drugs or alcohol.

Although relatively rare in youths under 12, young children have been known to attempt suicide – and may do so impulsively when upset or angry. Girls are more likely to attempt suicide, but boys are more likely to succeed. Children with a family history of violence, alcoholism, or physical and/or sexual abuse are at a greater risk for suicide, as are those with severely depressive symptoms.

New Horizons Wellness Services offers assessments and treatment for children who present with symptoms of depression.  Contact us today and learn more about our services.

 

Yours in Health,

New Horizons Wellness Services
13333 SW 68th Pkwy,
Tigard, OR 97223

- https://g.page/newhws

New Horizons Wellness Services provides a true multidisciplinary approach to mental & physical health treatments for children, adults and families.