What Can You Do
to Help Your Depressed Child

For many parents, the happiness, health, and security of their children come first in their lives. No matter how hard you try, depression can affect anyone, even children. While the idea of your child having depression can be frightening and overwhelming, depression is treatable. Early intervention is key.

Pediatric Depression

About half a century ago, depression was thought to be only an “adult thing.” Despondency, irritability, and sadness in children were regarded as a short-lived phase they would eventually outgrow. Studies today, however, reveal that these symptoms can get worse, especially if they are symptoms of pediatric depression. So, yes, a child as young as an infant can experience depression.

Pediatric depression or child depression isn’t rare. According to the Federal Center for Mental Health Services, “as many as one in every 33 children” struggles with depression. In addition to impacting their ability to have fun, untreated depression can linger episodically into adolescence and adulthood.

The Brain and Depression

It doesn’t matter that your child is very young. They have the same risk of depression as any other person, even if they live in a supportive and loving home without distress. Depression can be caused by a genetic predisposition or biological factors, such as uncharacteristic changes in neurotransmitters/brain chemistry.

According to research conducted by Luby, J. L. et al. of the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, depression can change the anatomy of children’s brains. Specifically, the gray matter, which is important in processing feelings, can be smaller and thinner in the cortex. Jim Dryden of The Source says, “The brains of children who suffer clinical depression as preschoolers develop abnormally,” explaining why depressed children can have difficulty controlling their emotions and moods. Luby also says that the condition can have “long-lasting effects on brain development” leading to future difficulties.

The Symptoms—Is This Your Child?

Recognizing your child’s depressive symptoms is critical. Unfortunately, spotting symptoms isn’t always that easy. If you think depression can’t affect young children, it may not be “on your radar,” making it easier to miss it. You may not realize that not wanting to play with other children their age, inability to sleep through the night, or picking at their food could be symptoms of depression. This can be particularly tricky as these are symptoms of depression, however, could also be related to a variety of other things!

If they have other diagnoses, such as ADHD, ODD, or anxiety, the symptoms can also be masked or overlapping, complicating a diagnosis of depression. Further, children with depression may exhibit symptoms that aren’t really unique to depression, such as irritability or mood swings. It’s best to bring them to a mental health professional if several of the following symptoms are observed for two months or more (Anxiety and Depression Association of America).

Depressed or irritable mood
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
Change in grades, getting into trouble at school, or refusing to go to school
Change in eating habits
Feeling angry or irritable
Mood swings
Feeling worthless or restless
Frequent sadness or crying
Withdrawing from friends and activities
Loss of energy
Low self-esteem
Thoughts of death or suicide

Empower Yourself by Seeking Help

Childhood can be the happiest time of a person’s life. Pediatric depression can ruin that. Children can experience depression. While this may leave you feeling helpless or hopeless, know that help is available. It only takes a call or a text to seek the help of an experienced counselor contracted with Carolina Counseling Services — Pittsboro, NC.

If your child is experiencing depression it doesn’t mean they will feel this way forever. Left untreated, depression can potentially persist. Early intervention can make a world of difference for you and your child. Your child can benefit from counseling. Call CCS today to schedule your first appointment. Online counseling and in person sessions are available!