Depression in children is often overlooked, primarily because the symptoms can present much differently than depression does in adults. Stereotypically, people associate depression with low energy, intense sadness, or lack of motivation. With children, however, it manifests in ways that may not suggest a mood disorder. As caregivers, educators, and parents, it’s important to understand the signs of depression in young children so that the proper support can be provided.
Changes in Mood and Behaviors
While all children have bad days with a fluctuation of emotions, things like prolonged feelings of irritability, anger, or sadness may indicate something serious. This may look like:
- Persistent anger or irritability that lasts days.
- Frequent temper tantrums or emotional outbursts.
- Withdrawal from social interactions and decreased responsiveness towards others.
- Little or no moments of joy or cheerfulness.
- Growing increasingly frustrated over minor issues.
Physical Symptoms
Physical pain may not be thought of as a symptom of depression, however, with younger children, excessive body aches may be an indicator.
- Stomachaches, headaches, and other physical pain without a medical diagnosis.
- Changes in appetites, such as losing interest in food that causes weight loss, or eating in large amounts to cope with feelings.
- Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, waking up in the morning, or sleeping too often.
- Low levels of energy unrelated to physical activity.
Difficulty Concentrating
Children with depression may struggle with focus, which ultimately hurts academic performance.
- Difficulty completing tasks, following instructions, or retaining information.
- Lack of interest in school and no motivation to meet academic goals.
- Daydreaming, falling behind, or appearing easily distracted.
- Lack of participation in class activities.
Loss of Interest in Activities
Social withdrawal is another major symptom of depression in children.
- No longer wanting to play with friends, engage in hobbies, or participate in family activities.
- Isolating themselves and spending more time alone.
- Showing little interest in things that typically bring them joy.
- Refusal to participate in social events or group activities.
Low Self-Esteem and Feelings of Worthlessness
Even at a young age, children can start exhibiting signs of low self-esteem and viewing themselves in a negative way.
- Expressing negative thoughts about themselves such as “I am not good at anything,” or “Nobody likes me.”
- Frequent feelings of inadequacy or believing they are bad or unlikeable.
- Lack of confidence in their skills and abilities, even in areas where they used to be good.
- Avoiding new challenges or experiences due to fear of failure.
- Having no goals or aspirations for their future.
Increased Sensitivity to Criticism
Younger children with depression may react strongly to corrections or statements made by adults or peers.
- Experiencing an intense wave of emotions after perceived criticisms.
- Anticipating rejection or failure for future situations.
- Becoming overly dependent on reassurance from parents, teachers, or friends.
- Fearing disapproval from others.
- Showing signs of anxiety, such as fidgeting, restlessness, or irritability when they are faced with a challenge.
Risk of Self-Harm or Suicidal Thoughts
Even though it’s difficult to imagine, children can also experience thoughts of self-harm and suicide. When a child is struggling with depression, these thoughts may be amplified, and could look like:
- Talking about wanting to disappear, run away, or wishing they didn’t exist.
- Engaging in self-harm behaviors, such as scratching, cutting, or hitting themselves.
- Making alarming statements including “I wish I wasn’t born,” or “No one would miss me if I was gone.”
Any mention of self-harm and suicide from your child should be taken seriously. If you ever hear or witness these symptoms, it should be treated as an urgent medical concern.
How to Help
If you suspect a child is suffering from depression, it’s crucial to seek help from a mental health professional as soon as you can. A pediatrician, therapist, or psychologist can properly evaluate your child and assess for the depression diagnosis. Once given, treatment options will be provided and may include Play Therapy, CBT, or Talk Therapy based on what treatment is developmentally appropriate for the child. Schedule a session today.