Recognizing and diagnosing childhood depression is difficult. Many signs of depression in a child are often attributed to the normal mood swings of a child growing up. Understanding the signs of childhood depression can help you get a child mental health help as early as possible.
Concentration
A child who is depressed may have trouble concentrating on the simplest of activities, such as watching television or playing a game. This may manifest itself as an inability to remember what happens during daily activities.
School
Depression may cause a child to get into trouble at school, usually as a result of acting out or being restless in class. The child's grades may begin to suffer.
Appetite
A sudden change in the child's eating habits may signal depression, especially when the changes are accompanied by other signs of depression.
Interests
A depressed child may want to be alone a lot, which leads to spending less time with friends, family and pursuing interests. However, a child who is depressed begins to cling to her parents more than normal.
Mood
Unprovoked anger or irritation, as well as a feeling of worthlessness, are signs of childhood depression. Some children may feel guilty or hopeless.
Physical
Stomach aches, chest pains, insomnia, excessive sleeping and headaches are physical signs of depression in a child.
