Depression in children
It is normal for children and teenagers to feel angry or angry from time to time. But when these difficult feelings begin to prolong longer periods of time, they may begin to affect the child’s ability to work as they usually do. This may be a sign of depression.
Similar to adults with depression, children or adolescents with depression may experience:
- Sadness or irritability
- Blaming oneself, feeling guilty, or feeling worthless
- Difficulties with focus
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Lose interest in activities they usually enjoy
- You may withdraw from their friends or family
- It is difficult for them to motivate them to make an effort to do simple things
- Some people may also have thoughts of suicide or self-harm
Depression can also manifest in a number of different ways, and it can be difficult to determine. Low energy and loss of interest may look like laziness or not trying. Irritability or a low mood can seem like a challenge or disrespect.
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What can I do?
If you think your child or teenager is suffering from depression, talk to your child about his feelings or feel curious about things that may happen at home or at school that might bother him. Validate their feelings and show that you understand that things may not be easy for them. Encourage participation in physical activity and use of other creative outlets, such as writing, coloring, music, sports or dance. Make sure you sleep well and routine, and that they eat a lot of nutritious food.
Seek support from your doctor or psychiatrist if some of these difficulties persist for more than a few weeks.
Check out blogging and blogging of my colleagues on the topic of depression, including the role of nutrition and stimulating behavior and online resources for depression.
