Spotting Child Depression:
Timely Recognition of Signs

Depression is a serious medical concern that can impact individuals of any age. Sometimes symptoms can be difficult to spot, especially in young children. If you are concerned about how your child is behaving or their mood seems to have changed, this is worth looking into. You know your child better than anyone, consulting with a trained, licensed therapist can help you to get a clearer picture of what may be going on.

The Science Behind Childhood Depression

You are not alone if you think that depression does not affect young children. According to Kathleen Hockey LCSW “approximately one in 11 children experience some form of depression by the time they are 14 years old”.

Depression can impact individuals at any age. Clinical psychologist and book author Deborah Serani, PsyD, says depression can even affect babies. This is confirmed by Dr. Jess Shatkin of New York University’s Child Study Center, who says that “babies can be depressed” and that “One in 40 Infants Experience Baby Blues” (ABC NEWS).

Six Facts to Know About Childhood Depression

More children experience depression than you think.

An estimated 3.2% of children are diagnosed with depression according to Yale Medicine . It is important to note that statistics apply to those that are diagnosed, there are many children that go undiagnosed and untreated.

Depression can be difficult to spot.

Depression is not something you likely expect your child to experience, so it’s probably not on your radar. Also, the signs and symptoms of child depression can be different from those exhibited by adults. Since young children do not fully understand how they feel, they are likely to exhibit symptoms such as irritability, anger, social withdrawal, and physical complaints.

Recognizing symptoms can be difficult if/when there are other conditions.

Children with depression are also at risk for anxiety (OCD, phobia, generalized anxiety, etc.), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and learning disorders. If depression coexists with any of these conditions, symptoms may overlap, making them harder to recognize. For instance, not eating or sleeping (or the opposites—overeating and oversleeping) can be signs of depression, in the same way that they can indicate anxiety or other mental health conditions, while constant irritability is a strong indicator of depression as well as anxiety. A licensed therapist can complete a thorough assessment to get to the root of what is going on for your child.

Depression goes beyond sadness.

Children with depression may also manifest symptoms such as physical pains or aches. Feeling hopeless and helpless, they may indulge in negative self-talk. Preoccupied with negative thoughts, they may feel unloved, worthless, irresponsible, or stupid. All these thoughts and feelings can drive them to behave defiantly. Alternatively, they may react by isolating or withdrawing from others.

Depression can be hereditary.

If they have a genetic predisposition, your child’s risk of depression is higher. According to David Fassler, MD, of the University of Vermont, co-author of Help Me, I’m Sad: Recognizing, Treating and Preventing Childhood and Adolescent Depression, a child has a 25 percent risk of developing depression if one parent has depression and 75 percent if both parents have experienced clinical depression. This does not mean if you have depression your child will, it simply means they are more likely to.

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial.

Early intervention is key. The sooner you identify depressive symptoms the sooner your child can receive treatment. Early intervention leads to better outcomes.

Helping Your Child with the Right Professional Assistance

If you are concerned about your child and feel that they may be experiencing depression, don’t wait. Reach out to Carolina Counseling Services in Pittsboro, North Carolina. When you find the therapist that is right for you and your child you can get to the root of what is going on and receive caring, comprehensive treatment.

CCS contracts with licensed therapists and psychiatric professionals. You don’t have to find multiple practices, you can address your child’s concerns with a therapist, psychiatric prescriber or both should you choose. Find the treatment plan that is right for your child with CCS. Call now to schedule your first appointment!