Recognizing Depression in Children

Depression in children can be tricky to diagnose. The symptoms of childhood depression can mimic the changes occurring in developing adolescence, and medical professionals can dismiss depression symptoms as teenage angst. Knowing what to look for and being aware of any significant changes in your child's mood or behavior is important for early diagnosis and intervention.

Symptoms of Depression in Children

The common symptoms of depression may be shown differently in children compared to adults. This is particularly true of younger, nonverbal children. Generally, children will feel the typical sadness, tiredness, and depressed mood common to adult depression. However, children display depression more often as anger, irritability, and acting out behavior. Some children will develop psychosomatic symptoms, such as headaches, that do not respond to a physician's treatment. Appetite and sleep changes, as well as social isolation, manifest as depression worsens. Academic performance will suffer also.

Certain symptoms are seen more often in children and adolescents dealing with depression. Signs to watch for include the following:
• Running away from home
• Extreme boredom, despite activities to participate in
• Recklessness, for example, criminal behavior or alcohol/drug use
• Preoccupation or fear of death and dying
• Unexplained or unprovoked outbursts of anger or sadness

Any of the above symptoms should be taken seriously, and the child should be evaluated by a medical or mental health professional.

Risk Factors for Depression in Children

Any child can experience depression during their growing years. Certain risk factors may predispose a child to a higher likelihood for depression. A family history of depression, especially a parent or sibling, puts a child at higher risk to develop depression. Adolescents experiencing medical problems, such as a terminal illness, as well as those who have a terminally ill parent, are more likely to develop depression symptoms. Adolescents struggling with identity issues, gay and lesbian teenagers, and pregnant adolescents will experience higher rates of depression than other teenagers.

Stress is common among most individual who experience depression. Children do not deal as effectively with stress, which makes it a higher risk factor in developing depression. Familial conflicts, any type of abuse, bullying, or a break-up can trigger a major depressive episode in a child or adolescent.

Depression and Suicide

Children and adolescents are more likely to attempt suicide when dealing with depression. Children and adolescents lack the cognitive abilities to understand many situations can be solved or will get better. According to HealthyPlace.com, a child who attempts suicide once is 40 percent more likely than a child without depression to try again. Of those who attempt suicide, ten to 14 percent will be successful. Parents can look for the following warning signs in a child if they suspect depression is leading to suicide:
• Giving away important or favorite objects
• Increasing anxiety or nervousness
• Sudden feelings of calmness or happiness - This generally occurs when the child has developed a suicidal plan and believes the depression will be over
• Statements eluding to the child's death or dying, either vague or specific

Any of the above indicators (or parental concern) should be reported to a medical professional immediately for evaluation and intervention.

Treatment Options for Child and Adolescent Depression

A combination of psychotherapy and medication continues to be the most effective form of treatment for depression. Special consideration must be taken when using antidepressant medication with children and adolescents, as many have not been FDA-approved for use in children under the age of 18. According to WebMD.com, "The FDA warns that antidepressant medication medications may increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children and adolescents with depression and other psychiatric disorders." For this reason, cognitive-behavioral and family therapy are enacted first. If no significant results are shown, medication may be considered. Prozac is commonly used and is approved by the FDA for use in children and adolescents diagnosed with depression.

Parents may struggle with a child's diagnosis of depression by denying the problem or blaming themselves. Education is important to not only understanding the illness but helping your child conquer it. As with any illness or problem, a parent knows her child best. If your child does not show the typical symptoms of depression but you have concerns, contact your health care provider. A professional can address concerns and help your child receive the treatment he or she needs.

This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose a child with depression. If you have concerns or believe your child may be depressed, contact your health care provider for an evaluation.