Depression in Children and Adolescents

Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects many individuals. This mood disorder affects one’s feelings, thoughts and behaviors and can be accompanied by a variety of emotional and physical challenges. Unfortunately, children and adolescents are not shielded from this disorder and it is important to be aware of symptoms which may arise.
Symptoms include:
  • Feeling or appearing sad, tearful, or irritable
  • Not enjoying things as much as they used to
  • Spending less time with friends or in after school activities
  • Changes in appetite and/or weight
  • Sleeping more or less than usual
  • Feeling tired or having less energy
  • Feeling like everything is their fault or they are not good at anything
  • Having more trouble concentrating
  • Caring less about school or not doing as well in school
  • Having thoughts of suicide or wanting to die
  • Physical complaints, such as frequent headaches or stomach aches tend to accompany childhood depression as well
Each person experiences depression differently; if you would like to have your child evaluated, reach out to a mental health professional for support.