Depression, unfortunately, affects millions of people across the world. And children are sadly not exempt from it. So, it’s important, as parents, to be able to identify the symptoms of childhood depression to help your child get the help they need.
However, the problem with depression in children is that the symptoms may be different than those observed in adults. Normally, depression is characterized by low mood and loss of pleasure. However, in children, depression can manifest in different ways. So, here are some symptoms parents can look out for when they suspect their child is depressed.
Consistent Feelings of Sadness
It’s normal to feel sad. Everybody feels sad at some point in their life. But just because your child is sad doesn’t automatically mean they are depressed.
The difference is when their sadness doesn’t seem to go away. A child can feel sad for a few days without it being a problem, especially if something has triggered that sadness. However, when their sadness doesn’t seem to disappear or at least improve, it could be a sign of childhood depression.
They may feel sad about their life or their future. Or maybe they aren’t even able to identify the cause of their sadness. They just know that they feel sad. And sometimes, this can result in frequent crying without any obvious reason. If these feelings of sadness do not seem to go away or improve in two weeks, it may be best to see a mental health professional.
Lost of Interest
Kids are often so enthralled by the things they find interest in. So, if they suddenly lose interest in things they once loved, it may be a cause for concern.
Now, it can be different when your child suddenly declares they’re no longer interested in something and then jumps onto the next toy or activity that has caught their eye. This behavior in children is normal. But when they don’t seem interested in anything at all, it could be a sign your child is depressed. To bring back joy into your child’s life, it’s best to seek help from the right professionals.
Withdrawal from Family and Friends
When kids hit puberty, it’s natural for them to spend less time with their families and more time with their peers. But when they’re withdrawn from both family and friends, it could have something to do with depression. Perhaps they have a hard time making friends or are feeling misunderstood. If your child has trouble making meaningful connections, it would be best to contact a mental health therapist to help you out.
Academic Decline
If your child typically performs well at school but then suddenly doesn’t, it could be a sign of childhood depression. Now, it’s normal for kids to struggle a bit in school, especially when they move up a grade. But when the decline is so sudden, it can be really concerning. If your child has been skipping school, failing to submit homework, has trouble paying attention, or just failing to do any schoolwork, it would be best to seek mental health services for your child.
Final Thoughts
Childhood depression is a big issue parents need to understand. And sometimes, these symptoms can be wrongly shrugged off as a child simply acting out instead of a cry for help. But with the proper help, children with depression will know how to better cope with their condition and live a more joyful life.
Give your child the help they need from Hope Seed Support Center. We are an organization that provides mental health services to the community through counseling, nutritional therapy, and more. Our dedication to excellence and benevolence is what drives us to provide comprehensive, client-centered care. We are committed to meeting the needs of children, teens, adults, businesses, schools, and churches. Schedule an appointment now!
