Childhood Depression 

Some people believe that only adults suffer from depression. But this is not true. Children and adolescents can also suffer from depression.  Although children have times when they feel sad or down, occasional bouts of sadness are normal for children, adolescents, as well as adults. When feelings of sadness, and/or other depressive symptoms linger for longer periods of time this can signal childhood depression, as well as depression in adults. 

Symptoms of Childhood Depression

Although we usually associate depression with sadness or feelings of unhappiness, an irritable mood, rather than a depressed mood or feelings of sadness, may dominate in young people. In addition to an irritable mood, depressed children may also show a range of other concerns.

Symptoms of depression in children include the following:

• Frequent bouts of sadness and/or irritability with indications that the young person feels this way much of the time. 
• Low energy, and feelings of fatique or tiredness
• Low self-esteem, negative self talk and feelings of worthlessness. 
• Feelings of hopelessness. 
• Lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed. 
• Sleeping problems, for example, problems falling asleep or sleeping too much. 
• Eating problems, for example, eating more or less than usual.    
• Poor concentration or difficulties paying  attention.
• High levels of physiological arousal.
  

If you notice that the child's symptoms of depression linger for two weeks or more report your concerns to your health care provider.

What Causes Childhood Depression?

Risk factors for depression are multifacited and include a range of interconnected Neurobiological, biological, psychological and social factors which encompass both genetic and environmental factors. These determinents are intertwined and their interplay is unique to each individual. Risks associated with childhood depression include negative stressors, such as learning and/or behavioral problems, social problems and being bullied. Trauma including chronic ongoing trauma and/or a single acute trauma like a motor vehicle accident may also be factors in childhood depression. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) which constitute chronic ongoing trauma,  such as having a parent who suffers from a depressive disorder, or another psychological concern, for example, an anxiety and/or substance use disorder is  a risk factor for childhood depression, and other mental health concerns. 

The role that genetics play in the intergenerational transmission of depression from one generation to another is unclear.  There is uncertainty as to whether the risks for depression are carried out through genetic transmission or the psychosocial factors associated with growing up in a family with a depressed parent, or both.

Childhood Depressive Disorders

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder: This is a depressive disorder in children characterized by recurrent temper outbursts, such as verbal rages and/or physical aggression toward people and/or property. The symptoms must be present in two or three settings (i.e., at home, at school and with peers).  The diagnosis must not be made in children less than six years of age or older than 18 years of age. 

Major Depressive Disorder: This disorder is diagnosed in children and adults. Depressive symptoms occur in episodes of at least 2 weeks in length. 

Persistent Depressive Disorder: This is a mild or moderate form of depression that can last at least two years.

Subtypes of Depression include Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.

Understanding the Problem is the Key to Solving It

Dr. O'Connor provides in depth, comprehensive school neurpsychological evaluations to  get to "the root of the problem," in this case, what is contributing to and maintaining the depressive symptoms the young person exhibits. 

The school neuropsychological evaluation provides a detailed, comprehensive understanding of the mental health concerns in a young person that worry you. It leads to appropriate diagnoses, when warranted, and evidence based interventions to address the psychological concerns the child shows.  The assessment becomes part of the solution; its findings lead to evidence based interventions to address mental health concerns in the young person, including depression.

Find out more about how a School Neuropsychological Evaluation can help when you are worried about childhood depression.

Interventions

, and hisEarly intervention can help reduce depressive feelings in children and prevent problems from escalating. Children who exhibit high levels of  depressive symptoms or who suffer from a depressive disorder may need professional help to address the depressive symptoms they show.Treatment will vary according to the child's level of development  and his or her needs.

Interventions may include a mix of supports. These include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: This form of therapy helps children think more positively and manage negative thoughts, feelings and  behaviors.
  
• Medication: Medication is also recommended to treat depression. The goal,however, is to reduce the use of medication in children, when possible and/or to reduce the number of medications prescribed and the level of the dosage.

Promoting psychological well being in young people may also help. These include:

• Physical Activity, preferably outdoors in nature when possible.
• Nutritious, well balanced meals. Reduce overly, surgary and/or fat filled foods.   
• Getting enough of sleep.
• Save, supportive environments at home and at school. 
  
• Having time to play, relax and have fun.
• Participating in activities with friends and in the community.