Do You Know if Your Child is Depressed?

They don’t have to pay bills!

Do they have to worry about a job?

What on earth can they possibly be unhappy about?

When we talk about depression and kids, these questions often arise.

Children and teenagers may not have to deal with ‘adult’ problems. But unfortunately, depression is a mental condition that can happen to anyone, irrespective of their age.

The transition from childhood to adulthood is a turbulent journey packed with changes.

Thanks to ignorance and social stigma, most parents dismiss behavioral changes in kids as an inevitable part of ‘growing up’.

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Children below age 10, don’t know how to express their thoughts well. Older kids or teenagers may live in denial. Or worse, they may feel embarrassed to share their feelings.

As responsible adults, we should not ignore any of their long term mood swings.

Not all sudden changes in your kid’s behavior indicate depression.

However, if certain symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks, you should consider seeing a professional.

Symptoms

• Sudden emotional or angry outbursts.
• Easily irritated at almost everything.
• Loss of interest in hobbies or activities previously enjoyed.
• Noticeable drop in communication with friends and family.
• Isolation or withdrawal from everyone.
• Giving away possessions or writing ‘Goodbye’ letters.
• Discussing dark topics such as death.
• Talks of running away from everyone or leaving home.
• Extreme low self-esteem.
• Self-loathing.
• Increased sensitivity to criticism or admonishment.
• An overpowering sense of guilt.
• Changes in sleep patterns, oversleeping, or not being able to sleep at all.
• Loss or increase in appetite.
• A general mood of sadness or hopelessness.

Causes

Depression in children can be a result of genetic, psychological, or environmental factors.

• Biologically, a low level of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain is associated with causing depression.
• Children with parents who suffer from depression or bipolar disorder are at a higher risk of developing depression.
• Severe medical conditions at a young age can be a contributor.
• Low self-image, body negativity can be extremely harmful.
• Movement to a new place as it breaks the chain of familiarity and comfort.
• Bullying or peer pressure.
• Rejection from other kids of the same age.
• Inadequate social skills that lead to anxiety.
• Abuse, assault, trauma as they remain suppressed in most cases.
• Conflict or separation between parents.
• The general state of the family such as poverty, chaotic situations impact young minds negatively.
• Relationship failures and study pressures are major reasons for stress among teenagers.
• Substance abuse at a young age.

Treatment

For mild depression, the most common treatment is CBT (Cognitive behavioral therapy).

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CBT is a form of psychotherapy that is primarily based on ‘talking’.

The child discusses his thought patterns with the therapist. Together, they try to dissect the reasons behind his anxiety and behavior.

Medication may be prescribed in cases that are a little more severe.

However, a combination of CBT and medication is considered the most ideal.

Antidepressants may be used for extreme cases.

But antidepressants must be prescribed with extreme caution as they have been found to trigger extreme reactions in children.

Measures

Healing depression in children is most effective when parents are involved in the process as well.

They need to acknowledge the problem and should be ready to take proactive measures.

Lifestyle changes can be a huge game-changer.

Physical activity of a minimum of 60 minutes should be encouraged at all costs.

Major ingredient of the child’s diet should consist of nutrition-rich food such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, etc.

A routine of sleeping and waking up every day at the same time should be practiced from a young age.

All devices should be turned off at least an hour before bedtime. Unnecessary screentime should be strictly avoided in younger kids.

Studies are always the number one priority of most parents. But extracurricular activities and other interests of the child should not be neglected.

Parents should develop a very supportive relationship with the child.

Kids should be made to feel that they are not alone. If ever there is anything that bothers them, they know they have a parent to turn to.

Conclusion

Depression in children is real. It’s high time adults take it seriously before it’s too late.

An open-minded approach from parents makes it easier for the child. Timely support would help the kid to lead a better adolescent and adult life.

Note: This article is educational in nature. Any action should be taken only after consulting a professional.