Depression Symptoms

Symptom of Depression in Children and Adolescents

Anger in children and adolescents is often a symptom of depression. Following are other signs that may indicate depression.

FEELINGS:

Does your child or teen express sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, guilt and worthlessness; inability to enjoy everyday pleasures? Does your child or teen cry frequently? Is there artwork that expresses inner turmoil?

THINKING:

Does your child or teen have difficulty concentrating, making decisions, completing school work, maintaining grades?

PHYSICAL PROBLEMS:

Does your child or teen complain of frequent headaches, stomach aches, lack of energy? Is there a change in sleep habits--going to bed later; sleeping later; waking earlier; sleeping for long periods during the day? Is there a change in eating habits--eating significantly more or less than usual?

BEHAVIORAL:

Is your child or teen irritable, having a difficult time getting along with others? Does your child or teen want to be alone most of the time--withdrawing from their friends, not visiting or talking with friends? Is your teen or child cutting classes or skipping school or expressing a desire to no longer attend school? Is your teen or child giving away possessions?

SUICIDE RISK:

Does your adolescent or child talk or think or in any way express ideas of suicide, death or morbid subjects?

If your child or adolescent is exhibiting one or more of these symptoms over a period of time, or if there is a radical change in behavior, here are some suggestions:

Talk with them about what you observe. Ask if they are okay. There is no danger in raising their awareness of your concerns.

If you continue to be concerned, call a professional therapist for help. This could be a Marriage and Family Therapist, a Social Worker or a Psychologist.

You could also talk with a family doctor, a good friend or relative, teachers, clergy, those who your child or teen may know and trust

If you feel that your child or teen is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local crisis line

(in San Diego, California, the number is 1-800-479-3339).

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