Depression is a serious mental health condition that can affect people of all ages, including children. While children may not always exhibit the same signs and symptoms as adults, it’s important to be aware of the signs of depression in kids to ensure they receive the help they need. Below are 20 signs and symptoms of depression in children.
If you child is exhibiting any of these signs and symptoms, or if you suspect they are a target of bullying, please get them medical help right away. Call your doctor or metal health professional and schedule an appointment today.
20 Signs and Symptoms of Depression in Kids
- Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness: Children with depression may appear to be sad or down most of the time, and they may not be able to see a positive future for themselves.
- Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed: Children with depression may lose interest in hobbies, sports, or activities that they used to love.
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping: Children with depression may have trouble sleeping, or conversely, they may sleep too much.
- Fatigue or lack of energy: Children with depression may feel tired and have no energy, making it difficult for them to keep up with their daily activities.
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions: Children with depression may have trouble paying attention in school, may forget things easily, and may have a hard time making decisions.
- Appetite changes, weight loss or weight gain: Children with depression may have changes in their eating habits, resulting in weight loss or weight gain.
- Thoughts of death or suicide: Children with depression may have thoughts of death or suicide, and may also express a desire to hurt themselves or run away. It’s crucial to take such statements seriously and seek immediate professional help.
Please text or call 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness: Children with depression may feel guilty or blame themselves for things that are not their fault. They may also feel worthless or like they are a burden to others.
- Unexplained physical symptoms such as headaches or chronic pain: Children with depression may experience physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches that have no clear cause.
- Irritability or restlessness: Children with depression may be easily angered or frustrated, and they may have trouble sitting still.
- Social withdrawal: Children with depression may withdraw from friends and family, avoid social activities, and prefer to be alone.
- Decreased school performance: Children with depression may have a decline in their school performance, with lower grades, fewer completed assignments, and more absences.
- Difficulty with self-care: Children with depression may have difficulty keeping up with personal hygiene, such as taking showers or brushing teeth.
- Crying spells or emotional outbursts: Children with depression may have sudden crying spells or emotional outbursts.
- Lack of interest in personal appearance: Children with depression may not take care of their personal appearance and may wear the same clothes multiple days in a row or stop caring about their grooming.
- Lack of motivation: Children with depression may lack motivation to engage in activities, take on responsibilities, or engage with their surroundings.
- Fearful or pessimistic thinking: Children with depression may have fearful or pessimistic thoughts and may constantly imagine the worst-case scenarios.
- Low self-esteem: Children with depression may have a poor self-image and may doubt their abilities, value, and skills.
- Negative thoughts: Children with depression may have recurrent negative thoughts and may often see the negative side of things.
- Aggressive or defiant behavior: Children with depression may display aggressive or defiant behavior, they may argue or refuse to follow rules and have difficulty with authority figures.
20 Signs and Symptoms of Depression in Kids
It’s important to remember that not all children will exhibit all of these signs and symptoms and that the presence of one or more of these signs does not necessarily indicate depression. If you suspect that a child in your life may be experiencing depression, it is crucial to seek professional help for a proper diagnosis and treatment. With the right support, children can learn to manage their depression and lead healthy and happy lives.
