Depression is one of the most widespread mental health problems in the world today, with rising cases among children and teens. Depression is more severe than mood swings or sadness and can seriously interfere with your child’s ability to function. If your child seems distressed, disheartened or miserable for a prolonged period, you need to look out for underlying issues that might be causing depression.
The general risk factors linked with depression in children include anxiety, hormonal changes during puberty and stressors. However, several other theories explain why depression is on the rise in children, starting with the influence of social media, which can severely impact their self-esteem. Also, increasing competition and the pressure to be the absolute best at everything can take a toll on their mental health. Other factors include a change of school and friends, conflict and tension at home, bullying at school or on social media, health issues, and parental separation or divorce.
Depression in children is real and can be destructive when left unresolved. However, effective treatment and support have proven successful in recovery and prevention. In order to heal, you need to make your child believe that things will improve.
By seeking professional help and treatment, and using additional support techniques, you can help your child overcome depression. Here are seven useful tips for parents and caregivers on how to be supportive in their children’s time of need.
Recognise the signs of depression
The early symptoms of depression in children are often overlooked or dismissed as episodes of mood swings. But that can be a huge mistake. A child may be depressed if he or she is irritable, sad, withdrawn or bored most of the time. Another sign of depression could be that the child no longer takes pleasure in things he or she used to enjoy. A child’s food habits (weight gain or loss) and sleep patterns (too much or too little) could also indicate underlying symptoms of depression. They may lack energy and become withdrawn during social interactions. They may feel hopeless, worthless or guilty and have trouble concentrating, thinking and making decisions. In its most severe form, depression can cause a child to lose hope and want to self-harm or die. If your child displays any of the above signs of depression lasting more than two weeks, he or she might need clinical assessment and treatment.
Talk with your child and provide support
Once you have identified the symptoms of depression in your child, talk to them to know what they’re dealing with. Encourage your child to open up about how they are coping with every aspect of their life. Let your child know that you care about them and will always be available when they need you. Show this by devoting your full attention and spending quality one-on-one time regularly. Be patient when listening to your child and ask open-ended questions to create space for dialogue. “Establish open communication with your child before you have any concerns so that if concerns arise, they’re comfortable talking to you about what’s going on,” says paediatric neuropsychologist Dr. Alice Ann Holland. Listening and showing empathy can be extremely comforting when something is bothering a child.
Seek professional help
You can consult a mental health professional—such as a school psychologist, counsellor, therapist or psychiatrist—to discuss your concerns about your child. A specialist may be able to help you identify if your child is dealing with chronic anxiety, coping with a temporary life stressor, exhibiting typical behaviour for their age or showing symptoms of depression. This initial conversation can help guide your decision whether to have your child re-evaluated or go on to pursue treatment such as therapy or medication. A mental health professional can also help your child process their feelings and provide an appropriate diagnosis. Studies have shown that in a majority of cases, therapy is more effective than medication alone when it comes to treating depression in children. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT, is one common type of therapy that research has shown to be effective for the treatment of childhood depression. A doctor may prescribe individual, group or family counselling, and/or medications to help your child recover and feel better.
Look out for signs such as persistent sadness, withdrawal, loss of interest, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, lack of energy, difficulty concentrating, feelings of hopelessness or guilt, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide. If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it may indicate depression, and it’s important to seek professional help.
Create open communication with your child, letting them know you’re there for them and genuinely listen to their feelings.
Yes, consulting a mental health professional is recommended. They can help evaluate your child’s symptoms, determine if it’s depression, and guide you on the appropriate treatment options.
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