Children's Depression & Treatment

Depression is a broad term with many different meanings.

Clinically, the term depression is a low mood and aversion to activity that can negatively affect a person's thoughts, behavior, feelings and sense of well-being.¹

Depression commonly affects children and adolescents. In 2014, an estimated 2.8 million adolescents in the U.S. (11.4 percent of the population) ages 12 to 17 had at least one major depressive episode in the past year.² In the same year, an estimated 2 million adolescents in the U.S. (8.2 percent of the population) ages 12 to 17 had at least one major depressive episode in the past year and were impaired enough to significantly impact their chores at home, school, work, family relationships or social life.¹

A major depressive episode lasts two weeks or longer, during which the individual experiences a depressed mood, a loss of interest or pleasure, and at least four other symptoms that reflect a change in function, such as problems with sleeping, eating, energy, concentration or self-image.

Chronic depression (dysthymia) is a consistent depressed feeling.³ Although the feelings may vary, they must persist in some form for at least two years to be considered chronic.¹

Signs of depression in children

The symptoms of depression in children vary greatly from those in adults. Some children deny feeling sad, but will admit to feeling down or irritable.¹ The depressed child or young person may no longer derive pleasure from life, exhibit low self-esteem, have difficulty concentrating or making decisions.¹ Some depressed children or adolescents will even think or talk about suicide.

Parents should not try to treat their child's depression on their own. A specialized provider must help, as treatment of depression in children and adolescents is different from adult depression treatment.¹ Depressed children often don't recognize they feel depressed and are commonly referred for evaluation and treatment based on emotional, behavioral or learning issues.¹

Should your depressed child take medication?

A child or adolescent with depression should be carefully and thoroughly evaluated by a specialized medical provider to determine whether medication is appropriate. Although there has been concern that antidepressant medication may encourage suicidal behavior in children and young adults, recent trials indicate that the benefits of these medications likely outweigh their risks to children and adolescents with major depression.² However, children prescribed a medication should receive ongoing medical monitoring. Once treatment has started, families should not discontinue it without consulting their provider.

Therapy types for children with depression

Psychological therapies for depression in children and young people include a number of approaches, which may include talking with the child and their family members to help the therapist understand the possible influencing factors. Some of these factors may include loss, grief or bullying, as well as behaviors such as self-neglect or isolation that may be linked to the child's depression.³

How can you help your child with depression?

There are a number of things you can do to help a child struggling with depression, including:

• Pay attention to your child and let them know you're available to talk or listen
• Monitor your child closely for signs of worsening depression or an increase in nervousness, instability or other symptoms
• Promote good health in other ways, including adequate nutrition, sleep and exercise
• Teach your child coping skills
• Modify your own expectations when your child is stressed
• Help your child plan for transitions, such as getting ready to go from home to school
• Educate teachers, activity leaders and family members about your child's needs

It's crucial to have the same expectations for a child with anxiety as you would for a child who does not have anxiety, though the routine or process surrounding stressful situations may differ.⁴ Talking about potentially triggering situations before they occur may help your child.

Children of depressed parents

Children are more likely to struggle with depression when their parents have depression. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek professional help:

• Loss of interest in normal activities and hobbies
• Excessive anger or outbursts
• Feeling sad or hopeless
• Changes in eating and weight
• Feeling too exhausted to complete even small tasks
• Excessive anxiety or worry
• Continued self-blame for past mistakes or failures
• Physical pain, such as headaches
• Thoughts of suicide or self-harm

It's important to remember that children of depressed parents can live a happy, depression-free life. Parents who take care of their own mental health and seek therapy will be better equipped to help their children thrive.

Finding the right depression therapist for your child

When your child exhibits signs of depression, it's imperative to get them professional help and treatment. While many therapists and doctors accept young patients, the key is to find someone your child connects with, trusts and is the right fit for your family.⁴

Successful children's therapists work closely with the child's support system, understanding the family dynamic and creating a partnership with the child's best interest in mind. These specialized counselors don't place blame on the child, their school or the family.⁴

Above all else, it's important to listen to your child and observe how they react to therapy and upcoming therapy appointments. If there is any sense of hesitation, dread or anxiety linked to the appointment, or if your child does not trust or open up to the counselor, find a new provider who will make your child feel at ease and offer sufficient help.⁴

Learn about the different types of mental health therapy, video chat live with a therapist for an introductory consultation, or visit Mental Health America for a comprehensive list of mental health support organizations and therapists in your area to help you find the care you need in seconds. Living a happier, healthier life is only a click away.

References

Pubmed Health Depression. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMHT0024768/ (accessed 4/8/2016)

National Institute of Mental Health. Statistics. Antidepressant Medications for Children and Adolescents: Information for Parents and Caregivers. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/child-and-adolescent-mental-health/antidepressant-medications-for-children-and-adolescents-information-for-parents-and-caregivers.shtml (accessed 4/25/16)

U.S. National Library of Medicine. PubMed Health Glossary Chronic Depression (Dysthymia) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMHT0024769/ (accessed 3/30/16)

Psychology Today. Finding a Great Therapist for Your Child. https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/nurturing-resilience/201011/finding-great-therapist-your-child (accessed 4/25/16)