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Not only
adults become depressed. Children and teenagers also may have
depression, which is a treatable illness. Depression is defined
as an illness when the feelings of depression persist and
interfere with a child or adolescent’s ability to function.
About
5 percent of children and adolescents in the general population
suffer from depression at any given point in time. Children
under stress, who experience loss, or who have attentional,
learning, conduct or anxiety disorders are at a higher risk
for depression. Depression also tends to run in families.
The behavior
of depressed children and teenagers may differ from the behavior
of depressed adults. Child and adolescent psychiatrists advise
parents to be aware of signs of depression in their youngsters.
If one
or more of these signs of depression persist, parents should
seek help:
- Frequent
sadness, tearfulness, crying
- Hopelessness
- Decreased
interest in activities; or inability to enjoy previously
favorite activities
- Persistent
boredom; low energy
- Social
isolation, poor communication
- Low
self esteem and guilt
- Extreme
sensitivity to rejection or failure
- Increased
irritability, anger, or hostility
- Difficulty
with relationships
- Frequent
complaints of physical illnesses such as headaches and stomachaches
- Frequent
absences from school or poor performance in school
- Poor
concentration
- A major
change in eating and/or sleeping patterns
- Talk
of or efforts to run away from home
- Thoughts
or expressions of suicide or self destructive behavior
A child
who used to play often with friends may now spend most of
the time alone and without interests. Things that were once
fun now bring little joy to the depressed child. Children
and adolescents who are depressed may say they want to be
dead or may talk about suicide. Depressed children and adolescents
are at increased risk for committing suicide. Depressed adolescents
may abuse alcohol or other drugs as a way to feel better.
Children
and adolescents who cause trouble at home or at school may
actually be depressed but not know it. Because the youngster
may not always seem sad, parents and teachers may not realize
that troublesome behavior is a sign of depression. When asked
directly, these children can sometimes state they are unhappy
or sad.
Early
diagnosis and medical treatment are essential for depressed
children. This is a real illness that requires professional
help. Comprehensive treatment often includes both individual
and family therapy. It may also include the use of antidepressant
medication. For help, parents should ask their physician to
refer them to a child and adolescent psychiatrist, who can
diagnose and treat depression in children and teenagers. Also
see the following Facts for Families:#8 Children and Grief,
#10 Teen Suicide, #21 Psychiatric Medication for Children,
and #38 Manic-Depressive Illness in Teens.
Article
#4 Updated 8/98
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