Is Depression in Children Common?
It wasn't until 20 years ago that people considered depression in children as a serious issue. The prevailing opinion then was that children were too young to understand or feel self-negatingemotions. A new Canadian study shows that 15 percent of preschoolers have atypically high levels of depression and anxiety. The study also finds that these children are more likely to have mothers with a history of depression. Almost 1800 children and their mothers took part in this 5 year investigation which showed that a baby's difficult temperament at 5 months was the most important indicator of anxiety and depression in children followed by lifetime maternal depression as the next most important indicator. Preschoolers with depression are also likely to be depressed in childhood. 2.5% of children and 8.3 % of adolescents in the United States suffer from Depression. While boys under the age of 10 seem to experience depression more often, girls seem to have a greater incidence of depression by age 16. The suicide rate for adolescents has increased more than 200% over the past decade. In Canada, 1 in 20 children and adolescents go through Depression before the age of 19. Despite these given statistics, research suggests that depression is treatable, especially if it is diagnosed early. What are the Causes of Depression in Young Children? In young children under the age of 10, depression is usually caused by events in the child's environment.A death in the family, parents' divorce,custody issues, illness, substance abuse in parents or sibling, physical or mental abuse of the child can all have a pronounced effect on the child. Sometimes Depression can be caused by a change in the home environment. Even a positive change in the home environment, such as a new baby's arrival, moving to an upscale neighborhood or a new home can be a catalyst for depression. Another possible cause can be illustrated in a variation of the popular maxim: All School and No Play makes Jack a Depressed Child. Depression is Anger turned Inward and while anger outbursts can be a sign of depression, the more usual symptoms are less overt. What are the Signs of Depression in Young Children? 1) A dramatic change in the child's personality could be on clue. A normally happy or outgoing child becomes withdrawn or defiant. A confident child becomes scared and clingy. 2) A dramatic change in the child's energy level can also be a sign of something emotional. Complaints of fatigue, boredom, prolonged whining episodes that persist for more than 3 weeks should be taken seriously. Frequent crying and bouts of irritability or moodiness can all be signs of a depressed child. 3) Dramatic changes in eating and sleeping patterns are also signs. A child may overeat or stop eating entirely. He or she may wake up several times during the night. There could be complaints of sleepiness, not being able to get out of bed in the morning, sleeping during the day. 4) Refusal to go to school or neglecting to do homework could be something normal.Most children go through moments when they lose interest in routines. However,balking at school routines is definitely a sign that something is not right when it is strong and prolonged, especially if it is not typical of the child's behavior. Be alert for changes in attitudes or emotional tone. Pay attention if your child refuses his favorite food or activities, or if she deliberately avoids your company. Does Your Child Say This?“Leave Me Alone!” For More Information, Take a Look at This Video on Depression and Children. What are the Signs of Depression in Older Children? 1) One strong indicator of depression in children, especially the older ones, is trouble at school either in academic work or behavior. School yard fights and poor relationship with peer group usually indicate underlying emotional issues. 2) Depression is anger turned inward.Hiding in the room or being withdrawn is another sign especially when this behavior contradicts the child's usual pattern of response. 3) A unusual preoccupation with death and suicide is also an indication that attention must be paid to the child. What Parents Can Do. If you suspect that your child is indeed depressed, seek professional help. Depression in children could be a sign of something quite serious. Depression in Children has been linked to disorders like Bipolar Disorder, Oppositional Defiance Disorder,Anxiety,even ADHD. Only a specially trained professional can discern the seriousness and scope of the child's depression. Medication ( if needed) and short term counseling and therapy sessions have a strong success record. Depression in Children is treatable provided intervention is early. Other options, in addition to professional advice, include diet, supplementation and exercise. Aerobic exercise, like running for example, has been associated with a decrease in depression. While a structured running routine would definitely help older children or teens, young children would probably benefit more from outdoor soccer games or free play. Lifestyle Changes can make a big difference in the child's emotional health. If you are dealing with a depressed teenager, check out
Depression in Adolescents.
You can help your child overcome anxiety, worries, and fears. By ending your child's battle with anxiety, his or her whole life can move quickly in a much more positive direction and change for the better. In the next few minutes, you’re going to learn how you can help your child feel more confident, secure in body and mind, and most of all, be happy again by discovering how to shatter the anxiety, nervousness, and fear that may be holding him or her back. Check out the Anxiety-Free Child Program. *********************************** Disclaimer: The above information is meant only to inform and should never displace professional consultation.
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