Depression in children is very similar to depression seen in adults. The child may suffer from feelings of worthlessness and sadness, display an inability to interact with others and may become withdrawn. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, about 5 percent of children and adolescents suffer from depression at any given moment. Parents should be aware of changes in their child such as frequent stomachaches, crying, low energy, sudden drop in grades, changes in sleeping and/or eating patterns and talk of death or suicide. If not addressed, depression can have serious and long-lasting implications for the child and family.
Relationships
A depressed child shows changes that can be obvious to close family, friends and teachers. A younger child may become more clingy, cry often and complain of pain, particularly stomachaches. They may avoid activities previously enjoyed. Older children and adolescents often become irritable or angry, making it difficult to have normal interactions with family and friends. They may get into trouble at school, and teachers often complain of changes in school behavior and dropping grades. The depressed child may sleep more often and complain that he has no energy to do anything. Sometimes they may eat more than usual, or seem to be losing their appetite. All of these behaviors are difficult for their loved ones to comprehend.
Drugs
Some older children and teens turn to drugs and alcohol when depressed. According to a study conducted by the American Public Health Association, early use of drugs and alcohol has been linked to later substance abuse and addiction. Often, depressed teens have feelings of low self-esteem and self-worth. They turn to drugs to elevate their mood and possibly to fit in with their peers. If untreated, substance use in adolescence can become a serious lifelong addiction that can be detrimental both physically and psychologically.
Suicide
The most serious consequence of depression in children and teens is suicide. Suicide among older children and teens has been steadily increasing. According to the National Institute on Mental Health, suicide was the third leading cause of death for adolescents and young adults ages 15-24. Suicide has become easier to carry out due to increased exposure to violence, more pressure to succeed academically and socially, and easy access to firearms and pills. Parents and teachers must be vigilant for the signs of suicidal ideation such as preoccupation with death, writing about death and dying, serious academic problems and social rejection, or running away from home. These are just some of the signs that a child may be contemplating suicide. Most importantly is for parents to seek help from the child's doctor or a qualified professional at the first sign of depression.
