According to the National Institute of Mental Health or NIMH, childhood depression has gained considerable attention in the last two decades, as the rates of depression in young and adolescent males continues to rise. In an article for BaltimorePsych.com, Carol E. Watkins estimates that as many as 12 percent of children ages 9 to 12 display symptoms of depressions that can persist for long periods of time and take a major toll. It is important for parents to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of major depression in young boys, so that appropriate treatment may take place.
Effects
The NIMH claims that depression is occurring in boys and adolescent males earlier in life than in previous decades. The NIMH also states that young boys who suffer from depression at a young age often have depression that is recurrent, persistent and continues into adulthood. The early onset of depression in young boys can lead to more severe illness in adulthood, and young boys suffering from episodes of depression are more likely to develop bipolar disorder and recurrent major depressive disorder, according to Watkins.
Differences Between Adults and Boys
Watkins states that although the criteria for a diagnosis of major depression is the same for adults and children, boys often do not have the vocabulary to discuss their feelings and may show their depressive symptoms through their behavior. Young boys suffering from depression are more likely to have physical symptoms and an irritable mood rather than a depressed mood, Watkins says. While depressed adults often lose interest in most activities, young boys suffering from depression still may enjoy participating in some activities, so it is critical for parents to understand other signs and symptoms.
Typical Signs and Symptoms
The NIMH claims that young boys suffering from depression may say they are sick, cling to their parents, refuse to go to school or worry excessively that their parents will die. Older boys may show different symptoms, such as getting into trouble at school, sulking, negative mood, grouchy mood or complain that they feel misunderstood, according to the NIMH. According to HealthyPlace, other typical signs of depression in adolescent boys are increased risk taking; changes in appetite or sleep patterns; withdrawal from family and friends; and aggressive, agitated or angry behavior.
Risks
Watkins claims that depression in young boys is associated with an increased incidence of suicidal behavior, violent thoughts and the abuse of alcohol and other drugs. When it comes to the risk of suicide, the NIMH states that the risk is highest for adolescent males if the depression is occurring along with conduct disorder or alcohol and drug abuse. It is important for health care providers and parents to take all suicidal threats or warnings seriously and provide appropriate interventions.
Treatment and Intervention
The NIMH states that early diagnosis and treatment of depression in young boys is crucial to the development of healthy emotional and social behaviors. In addition, the NIMH mentions that the most effective way of preventing depressed adolescents from attempting suicide is limiting their access to lethal weapons, such as firearms. According to Watkins, mild or moderate depression in boys can be treated with psychotherapy, and an antidepressant medication can be used in addition to psychotherapy with more severe cases. Social skills groups, religious groups and community agencies are good resources for parents to use in addition to therapy and medication and will help decrease the incidence of any lingering depression.
