Depression

Just like anyone else, children experience ups and downs in their moods. When sadness is persistent and begins to impact your child’s life, we classify it as depression (sometimes also known as clinical depression or major depression). 

Signs That Your Child Is Depressed

Young children, and even teenagers, often have trouble articulating their feelings, so it’s important to be in tune with your child’s emotions and overall well-being. Signs of depression in children and teens include:

• Sadness that lasts for two or more weeks
• Hopelessness
• Low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy
• Suicidal thoughts
• Loss of interest in activities and lack of energy
• Trouble in school
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Relationship difficulties
• Physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, and fatigue
• Irritability and aggression
• Running away from home
• Feelings of guilt
• Alcohol or drug use

Risk Factors for Depression in Children

Depression can occur in children at any age, although it is more prevalent in teenagers. Some of the risk factors for depression include:

• A family history of depression
• Stress
• A history of abuse or neglect
• Trauma
• Other psychiatric disorders
• Loss of a loved one
• Loss of a relationship
• Chronic illness
• Developmental, conduct, and learning disorders

Treating Depression in Children

Parental support is critical when it comes to treating depression in children. When you contact your child’s pediatrician, we will first assess your child’s overall health to determine if their symptoms are being caused by an undiagnosed health issue. If we believe your child has major depression, we will review various treatment modalities with you.

Treatment depends on your child’s age, medical history, and symptoms. Initial measures can include a better sleep schedule, regular exercise, and mindfulness meditation. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a very effective approach with children and teens, as it gives them the coping skills they need to manage their feelings. In some cases, antidepressant medications may be needed. Children who get treatment for major depression usually begin to experience an improvement in symptoms within weeks. Our office can help refer you to area psychologists and therapists and, if necessary, start medication.

Frequently Asked Questions About Depression

How do I know if my teen’s depression is more than just a phase?

Depression is not a phase or a normal part of growing up and you shouldn’t expect that your teen will “grow out of it.” While everyone experiences sadness now and then, persistent sadness that lasts more than two weeks is considered major depression. 

Can children be prescribed antidepressants?

While therapy is the first line of treatment for most kids, children and teens can be prescribed antidepressants when necessary. We generally use the same medications prescribed for adults with depression, such as Fluoxetine (Prozac), Sertraline (Zoloft), and Escitalopram (Lexapro). When used appropriately under a doctor’s care, these medicines are safe and effective. Often, a combination of prescription medication and therapy is the best treatment option.

What should I do if my teen is suicidal?

Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or, if you feel the situation is a life-threatening emergency, take your teen to the nearest emergency room.