health Post

Childhood Depression – Signs and Treatment Options

Most people associate depression as a mental condition for adults, but lately, children and adolescents have also been developing symptoms of depression. It is a condition more severe than moody kids or normal sadness in kids. Like adults, even children have their “blue” days when they go through emotional fluctuations. It is a state that significantly interferes with a child’s functional abilities in daily life. Research says that nearly 2% of preschool and school-age children suffer from depression. While there are early warning signs of depression, regardless of age, the causes could range from environmental, psychological or biological factors. It is important that parents, teachers, caregivers, and other adults learn more about the early warning signs of depression. Understanding and being able to detect the symptoms of depression in kids is important. Here are certain early warning signs of depression in children: Defiant attitude Change in appetite – either loss or increased appetite Irritable or angry most of the time Declining grades Physical complaints (stomach ache, headache) Reduced concentration levels Impaired thinking Fatigue and low on energy Feelings of worthlessness or guilt Withdrawal from social events Increased sensitivity to rejection Thoughts of death and suicide Vocal outbursts such as crying or arguing Hopelessness Sleep issues Self-loathing Lack of interest in routine activities Persistent boredom Overly pessimistic Developing more “clinginess” to only certain relationships Different children may show different signs of depression across different settings.