1. It's Not Uncommon
Childhood depression is not widespread, but not uncommon. Experts estimate that about five percent of children are depressed at any one time. Adolescent depression can be as high as 20 percent. Age is not a limiting factor either. Young children can be depressed just as easily as older adolescents. Most depression is transitory and does not persist into adulthood.
2. Pay Close Attention to the Symptoms
The depressed child may not act like an adult does when he experiences depression, so it is important to watch his behavior for clues. Is he overly anxious about something? Has he experienced a recent loss of someone or something important? Has he lost interest in an activity that was once his favorite? Are his sleeping and eating habits the same? Any of these symptoms, including thoughts of or a fascination with suicide, should be viewed as warning signs to parents, friends and family members. Seek help for the child as soon as possible through either his/her pediatrician or a child psychiatrist.
3. Risky Behaviors
Acting out can take the form of disrupting classes, self-destructive behaviors, abusing alcohol or illegal substances and promiscuity. When parents or friends notice these behaviors they should take immediate action. The depressed child may not have the capacity to understand why he is behaving this way, yet a trained professional should be able to help him/her find alternative ways to cope.
4. It's Treatable
Childhood depression is treated the same way as adult depression. Antidepressant medications work well for children, yet dosages may need to be adjusted. There are several types of therapists and psychologists who can provide behavior or play therapy to help children cope with depression and its related issues. Play therapy is especially helpful for young children who may not know how to express their concepts in words, yet are adept in expressing ideas and emotions through play.
5. Be Watchful for Suicidal Thoughts
One area of concern for parents is the tendency for children to exhibit suicidal thoughts and behaviors at a much higher rate than adults. Children often view the world in concrete rather than abstract terms. This viewpoint may mean that the child sees only one solution to their depression instead of a range of solutions that include therapy and medication. Any expression of suicidal thoughts should be taken seriously. This includes writings or drawings about death or a preoccupation with death or suicide. Parents should seek the help of a trained professional right away to get treatment started. Inpatient therapy may be needed depending on the severity of the depression and the seriousness of the child's plans for attempting or committing suicide.
