It’s heartbreaking to watch your child go through depression. You try to understand what they are going through, which often makes you feel overwhelmed and helpless. Unfortunately, our kids’ mental health is all too often overlooked until the depression has already taken over their lives.
In this blog post, we will talk about how depression in children manifests itself and tools that parents can use to help manage and mitigate its symptoms for their child’s mental well-being without compromising anyone’s quality of life or your family’s stability.
Data & Statistics
In 2022 JAMA Pediatrics published an article that showed how anxiety and depression were trending issues among kids aged 13-17. By 2020, 5.6 million kids (9.2%) had been diagnosed with anxiety problems, and 2.4 million (4.0%) had depression.
Even before the pandemic, mental health diagnoses had been on a steady incline. Between 2016 and 2019, anxiety saw an immense surge, with 27% more children being diagnosed, while depression experienced a 24% jump. The prevalence of these conditions continued to rise in 2020 despite economic uncertainty; 5.6 million kids live with anxiety every day, and 2.4 million are facing depression as well.
Can You Tell If Your Child Is Depressed? Here Are The Main Symptoms
When a child is depressed, parents may notice some of these signs:
- Sad or bad mood: Your child may seem more irritable, sad, or hopeless. They might talk about feeling like they can’t be happy anymore.
- Lack of interest: Your child may not want to participate in activities that were once enjoyable.
- Sleeping too much or too little: Your child might sleep more than usual or less. In either case, their sleeping patterns should be monitored.
- Eating too much or too little: Your child’s appetite might change significantly, and they may gain or lose weight quickly.
- Low energy: Your child may seem more tired than usual and have difficulty getting out of bed in the morning.
- Social withdrawal: Your child might be less likely to spend time with friends or family or stop participating in socializing activities.
- Difficulty managing emotions: Your child may struggle to control their feelings and have outbursts of anger or sadness. They could also become overwhelmed very quickly by even gentle criticism.
- Poor concentration: Your child may find it hard to focus on tasks or seem more forgetful.
What Should You Do If You Think Your Child Is Depressed?
If you think your child may be experiencing depression, it’s important to take action and seek professional help. Here are some tips on how to manage the condition:
- Talk to them: The most important thing is to open up a dialogue and let them know that you are there for them no matter what. Show them that you are willing to listen and provide emotional support. Don’t judge. Don’t minimize their feelings, dismiss their symptoms, deny their feelings, or compare their feelings to others. Just listen and provide a safe space to open up when they are ready.
- Create a safe environment: Make sure your home is where your child can feel comfortable and secure. Set expectations for yourself and them to create an atmosphere of understanding and respect.
- Reach out to a child therapist: If the depression is severe and you’re concerned about your child’s safety, find a professional therapist who specializes in treating children and teens. Seeking professional support can be an important step in helping your child overcome depression.
Is Your Child Battling With Depression? You’re Not Alone. We Can Help You Overcome It.
Depression can be a difficult and painful experience for both children and parents. But with the right support, it is possible to manage the condition and help your child lead a healthy, happy life. At Rogue Community Health, we have professional therapists ready to help your child out of this serious medical illness.
Our providers care for all behavioral health issues, such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Don’t let money be an issue regarding your children’s mental health. We are a non-profit organization that supports parents and families, no matter their insurance or financial status. Book an appointment with a friendly professional at our pediatrics clinic today.
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