Depression in children and adolescents has continued to increase. In fact, the term “depression” is so ingrained in our culture that adults, and even children, tend to use the word whenever they feel sad or down. In reality, every child goes through episodes of sadness at one time or another. But, when your child seems distressed or despondent for a prolonged period of time, it can mean more than a feeling of sadness. 

Why Depression is Often Overlooked in Children

In the past, many believed that children could not experience depression. At other times, their symptoms were written off as a part of the development process. Too many couldn’t understand what a child would have to be depressed about. It is also difficult for parents to identify where the line between healthy development, growth problems, and depression begins and ends. Unfortunately, this led many children to go undiagnosed and untreated. 

In many ways, depression in children has similar symptoms with adults. With children, however, it can be more difficult to pinpoint the underlying cause due to their limited ability to verbally express their feelings.

What Depression May Look Like for Your Child

For each child, the cause of depression can be different. It can be anything from divorce or separation of parents, death of a loved one to bullying or difficulty at school. How a child responds to different stressors depends on their personality and the situation. Your child may exhibit a variety of symptoms, including irritability, crying, changes in eating or sleeping patterns, confusion, anger, lack of concentration, loss of interest in things they once liked, and/or a general sense of sadness.

It is also common for children with depression to act out and misbehave. Children often act out when they are struggling to make decisions or focus, both are symptoms of depression. Depression is also strongly correlated with irritability which can add to acting out behaviors.

What Can You Do?

Watching your child experience depressive symptoms may leave you feeling sad yourself. It is difficult to watch your child struggle. Know that depression is highly treatable, but when it goes untreated, it may get worse. The key is to seek a professional who specializes in treating depression in children.

The counselors independently contracted by Carolina Counseling Services – Sanford, NC know how to treat depression in children. You aren’t alone, therapy can help. Call CCS today to schedule your first appointment.

Related Articles:

• Depression Sometimes Looks Like Anger in Children
• How to Save Your Child from the Lifelong Consequences of Depression
• Child Depression Counseling: The Way to Help Depressed Children
• Teen Depression: When and Where to Find Professional Help