Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects people of all ages, including children. If left untreated, depression can severely impact a child's emotional and physical well-being. It can even impair their ability to function in school, at home, and in social situations.
This article will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the various symptoms of depression in children so that you can recognize the signs and take the necessary steps in providing support and treatment.
Weston Family Psychology provides specialized outpatient treatment for depression. If you or someone you know is struggling with these conditions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at (954) 384-1117.
Recognizing the signs of depression in kids
Recognizing when a child is depressed can be challenging as it may manifest differently in young people than in adults. That said, understanding depression in children is important for several reasons, including:
Early identification and intervention can lead to more effective treatment and better outcomes.
Recognizing when a child is struggling allows you to make informed decisions, such as seeking professional help, providing emotional support, and making necessary adjustments in the child's home and school environment.
Openly providing support reduces the stigma associated with mental health conditions, which promotes better understanding and acceptance of the child's condition.
If you find that your child is exhibiting any of the following symptoms, it may be an indication of depression:
1. Changes in sleep patterns
Some children dealing with depression may have difficulty falling or staying asleep, which can lead to feeling tired or having trouble waking up in the morning. Other children may instead display a tendency to oversleep, perhaps brought on by a lack of energy or motivation.
2. Drastic changes in appetite
A changed attitude toward food can be a symptom of depression in children. They may lose interest in eating, leading to a lack of appetite and weight loss, or they may experience an increase in appetite and, subsequently, gain weight.
Changes in appetite can manifest in a variety of ways, such as not wanting to eat meals, picking at food, or overeating.
3. Irritability and anger
Although it’s normal for children to display occasional moments of anger and irritability, when it becomes a pattern that affects their daily lives, it may be a sign of depression.
Children with depression may become easily agitated and have outbursts that seem disproportionate to the situation. For example, they may lash out at family members or friends or become upset over small things. They might also display general grumpiness or an increase in verbal or physical aggression.
4. Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
Children who are depressed might stop wanting to spend time with friends or family and withdraw from activities that they once previously enjoyed. As a result, they may refuse to go to school, avoid friends and family gatherings, or not want to leave their house.
You may also notice that your child has lost interest in things that used to bring them pleasure, such as their favorite food, TV shows, or video games.
Get professional help
Note that some of the symptoms of depression in children can also be caused by normal developmental changes or other underlying conditions, such as anxiety or ADHD.
We recommend having a professional evaluate the child to determine the cause of these symptoms and provide an accurate diagnosis. It's not uncommon for these symptoms to overlap—a mental health professional would be able to distinguish them and provide appropriate treatment.
Final word
Early intervention is key to helping children who may be struggling with depression. With the right diagnosis, treatment, and support, children with depression can learn to manage their symptoms, improve their overall well-being, and go on to lead fulfilling lives.
Remember to look for patterns of symptoms and not to rely on one symptom alone as an indicator of depression. If you suspect that your child is struggling with depression, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for guidance.
At Weston Family Psychology, we are dedicated to helping children and families overcome mental health challenges and find joy in life. If you have any inquiries about our child and family psychological services, don't hesitate to get in touch with us at (954) 384-1117 or leave us a message.
We are here to support you and your child on the journey to emotional wellness!
