About 5 percent of children and adolescents suffer from depression, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. All children and teens feel sad sometimes. But depression is defined as an illness when low feelings persist and interfere with a child's or an adolescent's ability to function.
Changes in Mood
A depressed child may seem listless, losing interest or pleasure in most activities. She may cry often or express hopelessness. She may be bored or tired most of the time, lacking the energy to do ordinary activities. She may be easily irritated, often angry and hostile. She may exhibit hopelessness, low self-esteem or guilt. She may be extremely sensitive to rejection or failure.
Depression is often difficult to diagnose in teens because it is normal for adolescents to be moody because of the stresses of maturing, ordinary conflicts with parents and the influence of sex hormones. Periods of depressed mood are common. However, look for persistent negative mood. A depressed teenager may be irritable with frequent temper outbursts and may express feelings of worthlessness or self-hatred.
Changes in Behavior
A depressed child may isolate herself, showing no interest in friends or family. She may complain of headaches or stomachaches. She may talk about running away or actually run away from home. Relationships may be difficult. Sleeping or eating patterns may change dramatically. Poor concentration and frequent absences may lead to poor performance in school.
A depressed teen may be unusually defiant. He may engage in criminal behaviors, such as theft or shoplifting. He may abuse drugs or alcohol in an attempt to self-medicate. He may lose his appetite or have a voracious appetite, leading to weight loss or gain. He may have difficulty concentrating, making decisions or remembering things. He may be excessively irresponsible. He may sleep too much or suffer from insomnia. He may suffer from fatigue. He may be preoccupied with himself.
Suicidal Behavior
Depressed children and adolescents are at increased risk for committing suicide. Many signs and symptoms of suicidal feelings overlap with those of depression. These include a shift in eating and sleeping habits; withdrawal from friends, family and regular activities, and violent actions, rebellious behavior or running away. Other signs are drug and alcohol use; unusual neglect of personal hygiene, and a noticeable change in personality. Suicidal young people may exhibit unrelenting boredom, trouble concentrating or a drop in the quality of schoolwork. They may frequently complain of stomachaches, headaches and fatigue. They may reject praise or rewards.
A suicidal teenager also may say she's a bad person or feels rotten inside. She may give verbal hints, such as, "I won't be a headache for you much longer," or "You won't have to worry about me anymore." She may put her affairs in order by giving away favorite possessions or throwing away important belongings. She may become suddenly happy after a long period of depression. Finally, she may exhibit signs of psychosis, such as hallucinations or bizarre thoughts.
