Depression is a mood disorder that results in persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities. Depression effects how you feel, think, and behave, and can have effects on your physical, social, mental, and emotional life.
Depression is not just a bout of the blues.
Depression is considered clinically significant when symptoms persist for two weeks or more. Other symptoms include a change in appetite, change in sleep patterns (typically feeling exhausted no matter how much sleep you get), increased irritability or anxiety, and thoughts of suicide.
No two cases of depression ever look exact and the causes vary as well. What’s even more interesting, is that children and teenagers do not typically express or experience depression in the same way. This can make it more difficult for parents, caregivers, and adults to recognize that a child or teenager is depressed and keep them from receiving the proper treatment in a timely manner.
When identifying depression in children and teenagers, there are a few differences to look for. Please remember, that a teenager or child can exhibit all of the symptoms found in adults, but that in many cases, the symptoms below are more common.
Any marked change in your child should be noted. Depression, regardless of age has an impact on social functioning and is probably the easiest to decipher when trying to understand if someone you know is exhibiting signs of depression.
Regardless of age, all symptoms and feelings should be taken seriously. Call your doctor or child’s pediatrician. In some situations, medication can be extremely helpful. They can also help make a referral for therapy services. If you, your child, or someone you know is exhibiting signs of depression, please reach out! Email, call, or visit our website. You can find all our contact information on the home page of this site as well!
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