Childhood Depression

Childhood depression is terribly increasing each passing year. There are factors that contribute to this and the age depression starts showing. At this stage of life – in childhood – it is common to find that the cases of depression on women and men are the same. As children grow older, the difference gets pronounced with less diagnosed cases of men (due to society factors as you can read on our “Depression in Men” article).

Depression at such a young age can cause damage to the live of children if not treated quickly and properly.

How Childhood Depression Manifests?

The symptoms of depression in children are pretty much the same as the ones in adults. The difference is in their understanding of their emotions. Children lack the resources and words to express about their feelings so it is easier to check their actions. Childhood depression tends to manifest in the form of separation anxiety, phobias and behavior problems if they enter a state of psychotic depression, hallucinations will also be considered part of the symptoms.

External Symptoms of Childhood Depression

Among young children you'll notice that he/she may look different with less energy and more serious. They may appear more irritable in normal situations and will say things that can be judged as self-destructive.

Older children, may show signs of lack of interest in school, problems with siblings, irritability and thoughts of self-injury.

Childhood Depression Treatment

Before determining a specific treatment the child and the family must talk with a doctor. According to a variety of factors, the doctor will determine the best way to proceed. Common treatment to subtle depression include psychotherapy, that is supportive and and the same time will teach the children how to better manage emotions.

In severe cases antidepressant medication may be added.