Can children really have depression?
That seems like a bizarre question. Because childhood is marked with carefree days and a healthy, growing attitude.
Sadly, it’s real.
Childhood depression is distinct from the ‘blues’ and other common emotions that children experience as they grow up.
Just because a child appears unhappy doesn’t indicate they’re suffering from depression. However, if the sorrow persists or interferes with typical social activities, interests, academics, or family life, it could indicate that they are suffering from a depressive disorder.
Remember that, while depression is a serious condition, it is also one that can be treated.
Keep on reading this article to know about depressive disorder in children, and how you can help your child.
Table of Contents
Depressive Disorder in Children – Reality or Myth?
Depression is a mood illness that causes sadness, irritability, and hopelessness. It may have an impact on your sleep, appetite, and interpersonal connections. It makes you lose interest in hobbies or activities that you used to like. It can lead to suicidal thoughts in severe circumstances.
Can Depression Occur in Children/Teens?
People of all ages, including children, can be affected by depression.
Depression is distinct from mood fluctuations that occur normally as children grow and develop.
The illness can have an impact on how kids interact with their peers and family. It may make it difficult for children to enjoy school, sports, hobbies, or other typical childhood activities.
In psychological terms, depressive disorder in children is known as disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD).
What Causes Depression in Children?
Different things can lead to depression. There is no single cause.
Some children have genes that make them more sensitive to depression. They may have other family members who have been depressed.
According to the top reviewed Psychologist in Islamabad, Ms. Ayesha Umer “Some children go through stressful things. Some have faced loss, trauma, or hardships. Some go through serious health conditions. These things can lead to sadness or grief — and sometimes to depression.”
Depression is not a fleeting mood or an illness that will go away if not treated properly.
How to Tell If Your Child has Depressive Disorder Symptoms?
Depression symptoms in teens manifest in a variety of ways.
Studies show that depression symptoms in teens are typically misinterpreted as normal emotional and psychological changes, leaving the ailment undetected and untreated.
Early medical research focused on “masked” depression, in which a child’s depressed mood was disguised by acting out or becoming furious.
While this does occur, especially in younger children, many youngsters exhibit sorrow or a low mood in the same way as depressive adults do.
Sadness, a sense of hopelessness, and mood swings are the most common signs of depression.
If your child is depressed, you may notice some of these signs:
Sad or Bad Mood
Your child may seem sad, lonely, unhappy, or grouchy. It can last weeks or months. A child may cry more easily. They may have more tantrums than before.
Being Self-critical
Kids going through depression may complain a lot. They may say self-critical things like, “I can’t do anything right.” “I don’t have any friends.” “I can’t do this.” “It’s too hard for me.”
Lack of Energy and Effort
Depression can drain your child’s energy. They might put less effort into school than before.
Even doing little tasks can feel like too much effort. Kids may seem tired, give up easily, or not try.
Unable to Enjoy Things
Your child doesn’t have as much fun with friends or enjoy playing like before. They may not feel like doing things they used to enjoy.
Change in Sleep and Eating Habits
Your child may not sleep well or seem tired even if they get enough sleep. At times, he may feel like not eating. Over-reaction can be there sometimes.
Aches and Pains
Some children may have stomach aches or other pains. Some miss school days because of not feeling well, even though they aren’t sick.
How is Depressive Disorder in Children Diagnosed?
Consult with a healthcare provider if you suspect your child is depressed or anxious. Depression symptoms in teens are easily recognizable.
Consult your child’s pediatrician first. For a more thorough review, your pediatrician may recommend you to a mental health expert.
A doctor would most likely start by ruling out any conditions that could be causing your child’s mood problems. The following illnesses have been linked to depressed symptoms:
- Anemia
- Concussion
- Diabetes
- Epilepsy
- Thyroid disorders include hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism
- Mononucleosis
- Vitamin D deficiency
There are no tests that can be used to determine whether or not someone is depressed.
A mental health evaluation should include interviews with you (the parents) and your child. Information from teachers, friends and classmates can also shed light on your child’s mood and behavior changes.
Read more about strategies to overcome depression.
How to Come Out of Depression: Tips to Help Your Children
There are things you can do right now to help your child. Here are steps to take if you think your child is depressed:
Have a Nice Talk with Your Child
Try to figure out what’s going on. Is your child sad about something that happened recently?
Kids frequently have difficulty expressing themselves or don’t understand why they are unhappy or upset. Assure your youngster that you are willing to assist and that you will work through this together.
Discuss with your child the prevalence of depression and how it does not imply that someone is “weak.”
When depression is appropriately treated, people can live a healthy life.
Be Patient and Kind
Try to be patient with your child when he or she is grumpy or unpleasant.
Consult your child’s therapist for advice on how to respond appropriately when your child behaves in this manner. It is frequently beneficial to connect with your child in a calm manner before guiding them to better behavior.
Instead of feeling awful, this encourages children to be proud of their achievements. It shows them that you are proud of them as well.
Enjoy Time Together
Spend time with your youngster doing activities that both of you will like.
Take a walk, play a game, prepare a meal, read a story, make a craft, or watch a hilarious movie. If possible, spend time outside.
These elements help to promote a cheerful attitude in a subtle way. They make you and your child feel more connected.
Read more about breathing exercises to relieve stress and anxiety.
Reach Out to Your Child’s School
Discuss your child’s emotional concerns with his or her instructor.
The guidance counselor or school nurse may also be of assistance.
Check with them to see if they’ve observed any changes in your child’s demeanor. Inquire about school resources for pupils who are having difficulty.
Set Up a Visit With Child Therapist
A child therapist (mental health doctor) will spend time talking with you and your child.
They will do an in-depth check for depression by asking questions and listening. The therapist can explain how therapy can help your child.
You can consult a well-known child therapist/counselor via Healthwire’s platform.
Bottom Line!
While it may be distressing to see your child suffer from depression, assistance is available. The appropriate treatment can help your child grow and thrive for the rest of his or her life.
Aside from medical assistance, you may aid your child by ensuring a healthy atmosphere at home, at school, and in the community. Always let your youngster know that he or she can talk about their feelings openly and honestly.
