Many parents might think they can easily spot depression in their children, expecting visible sadness as the main indicator. However, depression in children and teens can differ significantly from what adults experience. Dr. Carolyn Spiro, a clinical psychologist with expertise in child and adolescent mental health, explains the signs parents should watch for.
Different Presentation of Depression in Youth
According to Dr. Spiro, depression can manifest differently in young people compared to adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that nearly 21 percent of children aged 3 to 17 had been diagnosed with a mental, emotional, or behavioral condition by 2021.
Irritability as a Warning Sign
Spiro, who operates a private practice in New York, highlights irritability as a primary indicator of depression in children. If a typically calm child becomes unusually cranky, oppositional, or tearful, or reacts excessively to everyday situations, these may be signs of depression.
Signs Parents Should Look Out For
Parents should be vigilant for the following potential warning signs:
- Withdrawing from friends or isolating themselves
- Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities like biking or drawing
- Moving or speaking more slowly than normal
- Feeling very tired or lacking energy
- Experiencing poor sleep or excessive sleeping
- Having significant changes in eating habits
- Struggling to focus
- Showing reduced motivation at school
- Facing a decline in school performance
- Turning to alcohol or drugs as coping methods, especially in older children and teens
When to Seek Professional Help
While mood fluctuations can occur in all children and teens, parents should pay attention to persistent symptoms. Spiro notes that a depression diagnosis typically requires symptoms to last at least two weeks, but parents should not hesitate to seek professional help if needed.
Parents are encouraged to seek guidance if symptoms severely impact the child or family’s well-being, disrupt school, friendships, or daily life, or if the child expresses hopelessness or suicidal thoughts.
Dr. Spiro emphasizes that early intervention can significantly improve a child’s treatment outcome.
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