Childhood Depression

It is a common knowledge that only adults suffer from depression, and teenagers and children are immune to it. This, however, is not the case. Around 4-5% of children, all around the world, are found to suffer from depression. Although this is one of the major concerns; one should not worry. Depression is not a long-lasting illness and can be cured completely. However, before taking a look at the treatment methods on childhood and adolescent depression, one should be aware of the causes of it and symptoms that help in identifying it. Let us take a look at it in detail.

Causes of Depression in Children

Similar to adults, there can be several causes of depression in children and teenagers. Problems in family, school, academics, stress; illness, difficulty, disability of any kind; failure, loss of a loved one, friend can be some of the prominent causes of depression in children and teenagers. At the same time, it should also be noted that as children lack the maturity to understand and cope with problems, failure or loss and hence, suffer from depression. It is also found that certain children (and even adults) have a difficulty in coming to terms with certain situations and cannot handle them. Due to the very reasons, depression is considered as a personal weakness. But, this is not true; depression is not a weakness but an illness.

Signs and Symptoms

Depression symptoms in teenagers and children are also similar to those found in adults. It is essential to keep a watch on the behavior of your child, in order to identify the signs of depression. The following are some of the major signs and symptoms of childhood depression that one should look out for.

• Constant feeling of hopelessness
• Constant feeling of sadness, sorrow, glum
• Low confidence, feeling of worthlessness, low energy
• Living in seclusion
• Withdrawal from several activities, sitting still or sleeping for long time
• Changes in eating habits, loss of appetite leading to weight loss
• Insomnia, changing sleeping pattern
• When probed, shows irritability, irritation, crankiness
• Memory lapses, lack of concentration
• Lethargy, lack of motivation and enthusiasm
• Suicidal thoughts

Drug and alcohol abuse is also one of the most common signs of depression in teenage girls and boys, and hence, it is essential for parents to keep a watch on their children. Abnormality in behavior should not be ignored, or taken lightly.

Treating Childhood Depression

Understanding signs of teenage depression and taking proper help is essential. One of the most important things to note is that, depression should be considered as an illness and should be treated with professional help. An early diagnosis of the condition can help the child / teen to get out of the condition as early as possible. Depression can be treated with several methods like psychotherapy, using depression medications; and with the help and support of loved ones. Psychotherapy and counseling by a professional psychologist or psychiatrist can help in overcoming childhood problems and teenage depression. Secondly, one can also consult a doctor and opt for depression medication. One should remember that medication should be taken only under a doctor's supervision, or it can lead to severe side effects and can also be fatal.

As a parent or a guardian, you should make sure that the child attends counseling regularly, and also takes medication at regular times. Secondly, while undertaking depression treatment, you should try and maintain a positive and encouraging atmosphere at home, and encourage the child / teen to come out of depression. You should also make sure that he / she has meals on time, and also has regular sleeping patterns. Lastly, it is also wise not to let the child / teen be alone, as in this phase, they are sure to have suicidal thoughts.

Lastly, as a preventive measure, it should be noted that parents should keep a watch on the child's behavior, talk with him / her, and try to maintain a healthy relationship. Strong and healthy relations definitely help in prevention of depression among children. Good luck!