Recognizing Depression in Children: Signs, Symptoms & Support

Depression is more common in children than you might imagine. Aside from cases of depression that are purely biological in nature, children can become depressed due to a variety of things. Divorce, teasing from peers and academic difficulties in school can all contribute to depression in children. In fact, approximately 5 percent of children in the developed world have symptoms of depression. That is why it's helpful to know what to watch for if you suspect a child you know may be depressed.

Instructions

Watch for Depression in Children

• 1

  Learn to ask the right questions. If your child seems depressed, use gently probing questions to find out if there is an underlying reason. Is he having a hard time in school? Is something at home making him sad? Knowing this can help determine if the depression has a biological or emotional cause.

• 2

  Watch out for frequent crying, loss of interest in favorite activities and excessive boredom in your child. All of these are signs of depression.

• 3

  Be aware of excessive time spent alone. A child who withdraws from social and family relationships may be suffering from depression. Spending most of her time in her bedroom could also be a sign of depression.

• 4

  Look for signs of low self-esteem. Statements that reveal feelings of inadequacy or worthlessness can be indicative of self-esteem problems. Self-esteem problems are often a sign of depression in children and can sometimes even be a cause.

• 5

  Monitor your child's displays of emotion. Excessive anger is a frequent sign of depression in children, especially when it is out of character.