Depression amongst children has become an issue that needs to be brought to the attention of today's parents. Medically diagnosed depression does not simply apply toward everyday emotions, such as sadness, that a child experiences. When a child's depressive state interferes with his or her development, interests, social interactions, and family life, it may be time to take a closer look at the signs and symptoms of the medical illness, depression. Childhood depression should be considered a serious illness but, luckily, a treatable one.
Childhood Depression Statistics
In "Childhood and adolescent depression: A Review of the Past 10 Years, Part 1", it states "a number of epidemiological studies have reported that up to 2.5 percent of children and up to 8.3 percent of adolescents in the U.S. suffer from depression." Depression is the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting close to 17 million people each year of all age groups, economic backgrounds, and races.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression in Children
The signs and symptoms of depression vary from child to child. The diagnostic criteria for childhood depression is identical to the criteria for adults. However, most children lack of ability to properly communicate feelings and emotions, which can make recognition and diagnosis of depression difficult. The primary symptoms revolve around a pessimistic outlook, a sense of hopelessness, and frequent mood changes. MedicineNet.com offers the following signs and symptoms of childhood depression:
- Irritability or anger
- Continuous feelings of sadness, hopelessness
- Social withdrawal
- Increased sensitivity to rejection
- Changes in appetite, either increased or decreased
- Changes in sleep, sleeplessness or excessive sleep
- Vocal outbursts or crying
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue and low energy
- Physical complaints (such as stomachaches, headaches) that do not respond to treatment
- Reduced ability to function during events and activities at home or with friends, in school, extracurricular activities, and in other hobbies or interests
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Impaired thinking or concentration
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Causes of Childhood Depression
There are a number of reasons that could cause a child to experience depression. One reason may be the exposure of a traumatic event, such as the loss of a loved one. Also, children with a family history of depression are more likely to suffer from the illness themselves. Other risk factors include stress, abuse, neglect, biochemical disturbance, and chronic illnesses.
Summary of Childhood Depression
There are certain signs and symptoms that a child with depression will exhibit, but vary between individuals. It is important to note that the symptoms of the mental illness depression often lasts for long periods of time, over two weeks without change, and do not consist of everyday emotions. The cause of the onset can be anything from genetics to experiencing a life trauma, and if left untreated can result in adult depression throughout their life or risk of suicide. If depression is suspected in a child, receiving a diagnosis and treatment plan from a professional should be the next step.
References
Birmaher B., Ryan N.D., Williamson D.E., et al. "Childhood and adolescent depression: a review of the past 10 years. Part I" Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 1996.
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