- Cardiology 84
- Dermatology 45
- Endocrinology 33
- ENT 16
- Fertility 190
- Gastroenterology 78
- General-Medicine 81
- Gynecology 80
- Hematology 19
- Infectious-Diseases 33
- Neurology 52
- Oncology 34
- Ophthalmology 23
- Orthopedics 69
- Pediatrics 31
- Procedure 23
- Public-Health 144
- Pulmonology 59
- Radiology 8
- Urology 68
- Wellness 161
- Woman-and-child 77
How to Understand the Depression in Children
Does your child seem persistently sad these days? Aren’t you sure about the reason behind his sadness? Then, instead of worrying, the immediate step you need to take is to look for the signs of depression, if any.
You might think that it is common for kids to be sad at any point in time. But if the child seems persistently sad or hopeless, it might indicate that he or she may suffer from childhood depression.
- Childhood depression manifests as persistent sadness, feelings of loneliness, hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness.
- It disrupts daily activities and relationships with peers and family.
- Causes may include life events, family history, and physical health factors.
- Most common in children aged 6 to 12 years.
- Parental care significantly influences a child's susceptibility to depression.
- Early recognition and treatment with medication are crucial.
- Ignored or untreated, childhood depression can escalate to serious disorders, potentially leading to suicide.
- Learn to recognise signs of childhood depression and how to manage it effectively.
Secure your health with a second opinion. Make informed decisions and book your appointment today!
Get A Second OpinionSymptoms of Childhood Depression
The symptoms of childhood depression and anxiety may vary from child to child. In most cases, childhood depression goes undiagnosed and untreated as the symptoms are often misguided as the normal emotional and psychological changes that occur during growth. The signs and symptoms of childhood depression include:
- Changes in appetite – either increased or decreased.
- Insomnia or excessive sleep.
- Trouble concentrating
- Lack of energy or ability to complete simple tasks.
- Irritability
- Social withdrawal
- Low self-esteem
- Frequent thoughts of death or suicide
- Sad or irritable mood for most of the day.
- Increased sensitivity to rejection.
Causes of Depression in Children
Depression in children can be caused by:
- Genetics: Family history of depression.
- Biological Factors: Brain chemical imbalances.
- Trauma: Abuse, neglect, or loss of a loved one.
- Family Dynamics: Conflict or parental mental health issues.
- Social Issues: Bullying, isolation, or lack of support.
- Psychological Factors: Low self-esteem, anxiety, negative thinking.
- Health Problems: Chronic illness or disabilities.
Often, these factors interact, necessitating a comprehensive treatment approach.
Ready to take control of your health journey? Book your appointment now and start your path towards wellness today!
Book an AppointmentTips for Parents To Help A Depressed Child
Good family support really helps a child recover from depression. When the parents come to know that their child suffers from depression, they are probably scared and feel helpless. It is challenging for parents to deal with their child’s pain, but here are some tips that help them to make their depressed child feel better.
- It is essential to pay attention to a child’s feelings and observe the changes in kids.
- When the child becomes anxious about a situation or event, stay calm to avoid further behaviour complications.
- Praise small accomplishments when your child completes a task or school project.
- Depression in children can have trouble focusing, and there might be a lack of progress in academics and other activities. It is better not to punish them and help them achieve their goals.
- Recognise the things that kids are good at and help them develop those skills.
- Instead of constantly telling kids what not to do, support them by giving positive feedback and encouragement.
- Establish a good daily routine and regularly talk to kids about how they are feeling. Remember not to ask probing questions, which may make kids anxious and irritated.
- The above-mentioned are the tips for managing a child with depression. Though family support has a significant influence on the child's recovery from depression, childhood depression requires professional help.
Conclusion
Similar to the treatment for adults, childhood depression is also treated with psychotherapy and medication. The treatment depends on the severity of depression. If the depression is mild to moderate, it can be treated with medication. But if the child doesn’t recover from the medications, he might need psychotherapy.
Parents need to observe the changes in their children from time to time and take appropriate action immediately. Seeking medical help always avoids further Complications. If the depression is ignored or left untreated, its consequences can be extremely serious, even deadly.
Frequently Asked Questions
They frequently internalise and/or externalise stress reactions, which can lead to significant depression, anxiety, or anger. Their emotional reactions can be erratic or explosive. Trembling, anger, sadness, or avoidance may be displayed by a child in response to a reminder of a traumatic event.
Physical fitness- Depressed children are more likely to have chronic or severe medical conditions. Events that are stressful, Changes at home, school, or with friends can put a child at risk of developing depressive symptoms. Some environmental factors, family history, and biochemical imbalances.
The primary symptoms of depression are sadness, a sense of hopelessness, and mood swings. Crankiness or anger are signs and symptoms of depression in children. Feelings of sadness and hopelessness that never go away.
Teach them relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, and practice them together. Encourage positive habits. Encourage your child to maintain regular eating and sleeping patterns, as well as to be physically active. Physical movement and music are excellent strategies to improve their mood.
Not always, but reduce risk by promoting a supportive home, encouraging healthy habits and communication, and being attentive to the child’s needs and behavior changes.
Provide a supportive environment, encourage open communication, maintain a routine, ensure physical activity, monitor behavior changes, seek professional help, encourage social interaction and hobbies, and offer unconditional support.
- Cardiology 196
- Dermatology 102
- Endocrinology 100
- ENT 66
- Fertility 204
- Gastroenterology 192
- General 276
- General-Medicine 698
- Gynecology 108
- Hematology 62
- Infectious-Diseases 107
- Neurology 148
- Oncology 334
- Ophthalmology 39
- Orthopedics 152
- Pediatrics 73
- Procedure 58
- Public-Health 184
- Pulmonology 113
- Radiology 13
- Second Opinion 26
- Urology 267
- Wellness 365
- Woman-and-child 120
Related Blogs
If you have any questions, please fill out the enquiry form or call us, and we will get back to you promptly.
040-68334455