7 Common Signs of Depression in Children

Depression is a common mental health condition in adults, yet as many as 2.7 million children were diagnosed with depression between 2016 and 2019, according to the CDC. These were the statistics before the pandemic. Since the pandemic, isolation, and lockdowns, the number of cases of depression in children may have doubled, according to a review in JAMA Pediatrics.

It is usual for children, like adults, to feel down from time to time. However, depression can last for weeks or months. If your child shows symptoms and behavioral changes for two weeks, contact a medical professional for an assessment.

Would you recognize the signs of depression in children? As a parent or guardian, you will do anything to protect your children. Learn the common signs of depression in children and how you can help them.

Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him. – Psalms 127:3, NLT

Common signs of depression in children

When our children hurt, we hurt. It pains us to see them behaving contrary to their true selves. Several causes of depression in children include problems at school or home, bullying, feeling overwhelmed, grief or loss, trauma, chemical imbalances, family history of depression, and social comparison. Whatever the reason, the symptoms are often the same.

Eating too much or too little

Rapid weight loss or gain is a sure sign that something is wrong. Have you noticed that your child is eating more than usual or skipping meals entirely? Sometimes children will use food for comfort during depression as they might feel an emptiness in their hearts, a new sensation for them. They long to fill that empty hole.

Conversely, they may not feel up to eating and only pretend to eat at mealtimes. Be aware that other mental health conditions such as eating disorders can coexist or cause depression.

Sleeping too much or too little

Sleep disturbances become more frequent with depression. Your child may have trouble falling asleep, or they may wake up often during the night and struggle to fall back to sleep. Again, as with consuming too much food for comfort, a depressed child may stay in bed longer and sleep too much. They may feel it is too challenging to climb out of bed in the morning. They may return to bed immediately after school or at mealtimes.

Feeling sad or hopeless

Sadness after a loss, trauma, or disappointment is usual and expected. However, with depression, the sadness is persistent, like a dark cloud following your child. This sadness, or feeling of hopelessness, can last for weeks. Ask your child questions and listen to their answers.

Are they crying for what seems like no reason? These crying jags might not be unmerited. They are showing outward displays of the sadness they feel inside. It may be time to contact a mental health professional.

Experiencing fatigue and listlessness

Instead of playing with friends and siblings, your child may lie on the couch more than usual. They might complain about being tired or shrug when you ask them what they want to do. Honestly, they probably do not feel like doing anything as depression can exhibit physical manifestations such as fatigue.

Displaying listlessness or low energy is a cause for concern, and your pediatrician should check your child to rule out medical conditions like anemia.

Lost interest in fun hobbies, outings, and games

Most children vibrate with excitable energy when told they can play with their friends, play their favorite game, or go someplace fun. Depression takes away this interest. It may seem like your child is suddenly displaying an “I could take it or leave it” attitude.

If you are the parent of a preteen, you may think this is a normal part of growing up as some children want to appear more mature and scoff at family outings. But pay close attention, is their disinterest just in the outing with their younger siblings, or is it expanding into all areas of their life? Are they no longer hanging out with their friends? When was the last time you saw your child doing their favorite activity?

Displaying mood swings

In preteens, it is easy to contribute mood swings to puberty. However, children of all ages dealing with depression may show sudden outbursts of anger and irritability, or engage in physical violence. They may begin having fights in school or with their siblings.

As they grow older, they may have more confrontations with adults such as their parents or teachers. They can also become overemotional with unexpected crying. These extremes are noticeable and should be discussed with their physician.

Unexplained belly aches or headaches

Physical illnesses can stem from chronic depression. If your child complains of stomach aches, headaches, or other body aches, ensure it is not due to a physical condition, and then seek help from a mental health professional. As depression, anxiety, and stress increase, hormone and chemical levels rise, making the body feel ill. Getting to the root of your child’s depression while also treating the physical symptoms is essential.

Depression, if left untreated, can become severe. Notice your child’s behavior and try to listen to them. The signs may be subtle. If your child is showing dangerous signs of depression, such as:

• Isolating themselves from others.
• Talking about suicide or hopelessness.
• Abusing drugs or alcohol.
• Getting into trouble at school.
• Showing multiple symptoms of depression.
• Showing an interest in weapons.

If your child displays any of the above, reach out for support today.

Treatment for depression in children

Once your primary physician or another medical professional has ruled out any physical conditions for your child’s symptoms, they may refer you to a therapist. A therapist will assess your child’s behavior and give a diagnosis. Depression in children is treatable. The therapist will work with you and your child to uncover the cause of the depression and customize a treatment plan.

Children with chemical imbalances and a family history of depression and other mental health conditions, or those with moderate to severe depression, may use a combination of psychotherapy and pharmacological treatment options. The therapist will discuss the benefits, expectations, and side effects of any medication with you.

Psychotherapy includes talk therapy in individual or family sessions. Depending on your child’s age, you may be present during these sessions. Family therapy is a great way to be a part of your child’s treatment, learn how to navigate mood swings and listlessness, and be aware of more dangerous (suicidal) behaviors.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment option for children with mild to moderate depression, although CBT is often used with severe depression in conjunction with other treatments. CBT teaches the child lifelong coping skills to manage emotions, reframe negative thoughts, and learn problem-solving techniques.

The treatment works to give the child a sense of freedom and accomplishment by learning that they can identify their thoughts and emotions and make decisions that will lead to positive actions. The children can take these techniques out into the “real” world and apply them to different situations.

Choosing a Christian counseling center for your child’s depression treatment will provide them with the latest in psychological techniques, draw them closer to God, and help them grow in their spiritual journey. A solid foundation in Jesus Christ will help your child weather any external, physical, or emotional storm. Help set them up with coping skills for life.

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. – Proverbs 22:6, NIV

When your child displays depression

If your child is showing signs of depression in children, do not wait. Reach out to one of the Christian counselors in our network today. We are here to help you and your child through this challenging season.

We use evidence-backed psychology with faith in Jesus Christ to help our young clients understand why they feel the way they do and guide them down a different path. Call us today to schedule an appointment to address signs of depression in children or other concerns you may have.