Childhood Depression – Signs and Timely Assistance

Children are curious, oozing energy and laughter, or at least this is how we usually think of childhood. But what if a child who used to love playing, talking, exploring... begins to withdraw from others, seems sad for days on end, complains that “everything is boring” and “life does not make sense”?

Unfortunately, depression is not rare in children. About 3% of children and teenagers aged between 3 and 17 have a diagnosed form of depression, and the actual figures are estimated to be even higher. Depression is more common among teenagers, especially teenage girls, compared to younger children. Children with chronic diseases, such as diabetes, epilepsy or asthma, are at an even higher risk of depression.
More and more children and teenagers face this severe emotional difficulty, but their distress often goes unrecognised. Because parents do not expect depression in childhood. And because, in children, it is not necessarily manifested in tears, but rather in silence, anger, fatigue or “disobedience”.

If you are wondering how to tell the difference between normal sadness and depression, what a depressed child looks like, and when to seek help – keep reading. Knowledge saves lives.

What is depression in children?

Depression is one of the most common mental health problems and often develops together with anxiety. It can be mild and short-term or severe and long-term. Some people experience it only once, while others may have multiple episodes in their lifetime.

Depression is a condition that affects the child's mood, relationships with others and ability to enjoy activities that used to bring him/her joy. It may lead to self-harm and suicidal thoughts, but this can be prevented with timely support. It is crucial to know that a lot can be done to help children who are thinking about self-harm.

Causes of depression in children

Causes of depression may vary. Depression may be result of abuse, bullying in school, death of a loved one, family problems such as divorce or domestic violence. It may also occur after lasting stress, and sometimes without a clear cause. It may also be hereditary.

• Risk factors include:
• genetic predisposition (close family members with a history of depression),
• chronic diseases,
• brain injuries,
• changes in the family environment,
• loss of a friend or a breakup,
• hormonal imbalance during puberty,
• peer violence and other trauma,
• problems with friends and peers,
• family conflicts,
• bad relations in school,
• low birth weight,
• substance use.

How to tell the difference between sadness and depression

Sadness is natural. A child may be sad if he/she loses a favourite toy, has a fight with a friend or gets a bad mark. But sadness has a beginning and an end. Depression persists and has an impact on the child’s overall life.

Most common signs of depression in children

Mood and behaviour changes:

• irritability, tearfulness, reclusiveness,
• loss of enthusiasm and interest in the world around him/her,
• negative self-image (e.g. “I’m worthless”)
• loss of motivation
• weak performance in school

Problems with sleeping and appetite:

• difficulties falling asleep or waking up,
• excessive sleeping,
• changes in appetite (excessive eating or loss of appetite)

Social withdrawal:

• refusing to play/spend time with peers,
• skipping school or isolation in his/her room,
• isolation even within the family

Other common symptoms:

• fatigue and low energy,
• problems with concentration,
• physical pain without a cause (e.g. headache, stomach ache),
• thoughts about death or self-harm,
• behavioural risks that the child did not exhibit in the past.

Where to go if you think your child is depressed:

If you think your child is depressed, see a paediatrician first. The doctor will rule out physical causes (anaemia, thyroid disorders, chronic fatigue etc.). If there is no physical cause, the child will be referred to a psychologist or psychiatrist.

In addition, you may talk to teachers and other adults in the child’s environment to gain a comprehensive insight.

How to provide timely support to the child

The role of parents and family

The most important thing a parent can do is to be there for his/her child. Presence, warmth and support can have a powerful impact on the child’s mental health.

• Talk every day and listen without judgment.
• Show interest in what your child likes.
• Encourage your child to keep a journal or draw to express his/her feelings.
• Be on the lookout for any changes in behaviour, sleeping and eating.
• Encourage healthy habits – regular sleeping, meals and physical activity.

When to seek professional help?

If behavioural changes last longer than two weeks, or if the child shows signs of severe distress, reclusiveness or thinking about self-harm – do not wait. Consult a doctor.

Tips on support and communication

• Maintain a routine of sleeping and eating.
• Encourage physical activity and spending time outdoors.
• Do not downplay your child's feelings.
• Ask: “How you are feeling today?” or “What has been the most difficult for you lately?”
• If the child does not want to talk, offer other ways of expressing himself/herself.
• Model how to deal with stress by setting boundaries and taking care of yourself.

Your presence heals

Depression in children is not the end; rather, it is an invitation to embark on healing together. If the home offers a solid foundation and if the child knows that he/she has someone to go to, depression can be defeated.

So, talk. Watch, listen, be there. A child does not need a perfect parent, but a parent who is consistently, patiently and lovingly present.

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