Depression in children, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, was not recognized or taken seriously until about two decades ago. Mental Health America states that as of 2009, one in 33 children within the general population has clinical depression. At higher risk for depression are children struggling with issues of anxiety, stress, loss, and learning, conduct and attentional disorders. Children often display changing symptoms of depression depending on their situation and activities. Dr. Rama Pemmaragu Rao, at NBC Digital Health Network, suggests that parents and teachers pay attention to a variety of signs and symptoms because sadness may not be the most apparent symptom of childhood depression.
Behavioral Issues
Behavioral issues are one possible sign of depression. A child may be hostile, act out, shout or be irritable.
Depressive Themes
Depressive themes in a child's play may be a sign of depression. Children struggling to verbalize their emotions may show their depression through their art and play. Dr. Pemmaragu Rao suggests that depressed children may draw images of themselves or their families that are sad, morbid or lifeless. Alternatively, they may paint crying objects, trees without leaves or broken down houses.
Bodily Ailments
Children may complain of bodily ailments as a sign of depression. Depressed children may use headaches, stomachaches, or pains in arms and legs as a way to avoid school, friends or activities.
Increased Sleep
Increased need for sleep may be an indication of childhood depression. Children may sleep more than usual, or appear extremely lethargic as an escape from school or other activities.
Drop in School Performance
A drop in school performance may indicate childhood depression. A child's grades, effort or behaviors may change suddenly. Additionally, a child may withdraw at school from friends and group activities.
Running Away
Threats or attempts to run away from home may be signs of childhood depression.
Drugs, Alcohol, Suicide Threats
For older children and teens, issues of drugs, alcohol or suicide threats are indicative of possible depression.
Other Signs
More commonly recognized symptoms of depression, noticeable in both adults and children, include crying, sadness, loss of interest, change in eating or sleeping patterns, poor concentration, persistent boredom, low energy, difficulty with relationships and low self-esteem.
