Childhood Depression, What Parents Need to Know about:
One of the biggest myths about childhood depression (also known as pediatric depression) is that it doesn’t exist. However, depression is a real illness that affects both adults and kids. In fact, kids as young as 3 years old can have depression. Depression can even affect babies. They may exhibit symptoms such as unresponsiveness, lethargy, inconsolable crying and feeding problems.
Below, she reveals what pediatric depression looks like, along with what you can do if you spot these signs.
Signs & Symptoms of Pediatric Depression
Depression tends to manifest differently in kids than it does in adults. “For the most part, children and teens experience fatigue and irritability and other physical complaints,” such as aches and pains.
Kids also may seem bored and withdrawn and experience loss of interest. In her book Depression and Your Child, Serani writes, “This is called anhedonia. Children show this deflated disposition in play, with sports, friends, in school, and in other previously loved hobbies or activities.” Hopelessness and helplessness can manifest as negative self-talk with phrases such as “I am bad” and “I can’t do anything right,” she says. Because depression distorts thinking, it can shrink a child’s self-worth. Kids may “feel worthless or unlovable, useless or stupid.
Another sign is behavior change. A child who typically does well in school might start getting failing grades. They also might give away favorite toys or start sleeping more.
In addition, kids might hide themselves, she says. “Young children who experience depression like to tuck themselves in their room when they’re sad or to avoid family or social interactions.”
When she was depressed as a child, Serani had a secret hiding place near the basement boiler that made her feel safe. “It was quiet and warm there, and I could just rest without anyone asking anything of me.” CONTINUE READING.