14938 Depression In Children

Overview

Depression is a mood disorder that makes a child feel very sad, empty, or hopeless most of the time over weeks or months. It is more than just feeling down or having a bad day. Depression affects how a child thinks, feels, and behaves, and can make it hard to enjoy things, go to school, or be with friends.

Depression in children is not rare. About 5 in 100 children and young people experience depression in the UK. It can happen at any age, but becomes more common as children get older.

Depression can affect children of any age, gender, or background. It is more often recognized in teenagers, but younger children can also be depressed. Children who have family members with depression, who have faced stress or trauma, or who have other health conditions may be at higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling sad, empty, or tearful most of the day, nearly every day
• Losing interest or pleasure in activities they used to enjoy
• Changes in appetite or sleep (eating or sleeping much more or less than usual)
• Feeling tired or lacking energy
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Feeling worthless, guilty, or hopeless

Symptoms in children

• Irritability, anger, or temper outbursts more than sadness
• Avoiding friends and family or not wanting to go to school
• Physical complaints like tummy aches or headaches without a clear cause
• Low confidence or blaming themselves for things beyond their control
• Talking about being a burden or not wanting to be here anymore

Symptoms in older adults

• This topic focuses on children, but in older adults depression may show as memory problems, physical pains, or withdrawal from social life.

Causes

Main causes

• Chemical changes in the brain that affect mood
• Genetic factors – depression can run in families
• Life events such as a death in the family, divorce, or moving home
• Bullying, abuse, or other traumatic experiences

Risk factors

• Having a parent or sibling with depression
• Chronic physical illness or learning difficulties
• Low support from family or friends
• Stressful life events such as family breakdown or bereavement
• Being bullied at school or online

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your child talks about self-harm or suicide, call emergency services immediately.
• If your child is at immediate risk of hurting themselves, do not leave them alone – get help right away.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your child has felt sad, irritable, or uninterested in things for two weeks or longer
• If their mood is affecting their school work, friendships, or family life
• If you are worried about your child's mental health, even if they seem okay outwardly

Diagnosis

A doctor (such as a GP) can assess your child by asking them questions about their feelings, behavior, sleep, appetite, and school life. They will also ask you how things are at home. Sometimes the doctor will involve a specialist in child mental health.

Tests that may be done

• A detailed conversation with the child and parent
• Questionnaires about mood and behavior
• A physical check-up to rule out other conditions like thyroid problems or anemia

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will take time to listen and will see your child as an individual. They may ask to speak with your child alone or with you present. A diagnosis is only made if the symptoms are severe enough and have lasted for at least two weeks. You can expect a supportive, non-judgmental discussion and gentle guidance about next steps.

Treatment

Treatment for childhood depression often starts with talk therapy, which helps the child understand their feelings and learn ways to cope. In more moderate or severe cases, therapy combined with medication may be recommended for older children. Family support is always a key part of treatment.

Self-care at home

• Encourage a regular sleep schedule so your child gets enough rest
• Help your child stay connected with friends and things they enjoy
• Try to keep a predictable home routine – regular meals and family time help feelings of safety
• Encourage gentle physical activity, like walking, cycling, or playing outside
• Create a calm and open environment where your child can talk without fear of judgement

Medical treatments

In some cases, a doctor may suggest a course of talking therapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). If depression is moderate to severe or does not improve with therapy alone, a specialist may consider an antidepressant medicine. This is always prescribed and monitored by a doctor. The choice of medicine, dose, and how long it is used is made with you and your child, carefully weighing benefits and risks. Never stop or change a prescribed medicine without speaking to the doctor first.

Living with this condition

Living with depression can be hard for the whole family. Some days will be better than others, that's normal. Keep communication open, praise small steps, and avoid putting pressure on your child to 'cheer up'. Let them know you love them unconditionally and that you are in this together.

Lifestyle tips

• Make sure your child has a healthy, balanced diet with regular meals
• Encourage daily physical activity, but keep it fun and not stressful
• Limit screen time, especially before bed
• Build in time for relaxation and hobbies, even small ones
• Help your child keep a routine – wake up, meals, school, and sleep around the same time each day

Diet and exercise

Eating regular meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein can help keep energy and mood more stable. Exercise releases feel-good chemicals in the brain and can improve sleep. It doesn't have to be sports — a walk or dancing in the living room counts.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Depression can affect a child's self-esteem, school performance, and relationships. It can also affect parents and siblings – you may feel worried, frustrated, or even guilty. That's normal. Taking care of your own mental health is important so you can be strong for your child.

Prevention

Depression is not something you can fully prevent in your child, but you can build a strong foundation by creating a loving, stable, and supportive home. Early help for bullying, emotional distress, or life changes can reduce the chance of depression developing or getting worse.

Complications

If left untreated

• Difficulty at school – lower grades or dropping out
• Problems with friendships and family relationships
• Self-harm or suicide attempts
• Substance misuse, such as alcohol or drugs
• Long-term depression that continues into adulthood

Long-term outlook

The outlook for children with depression is hopeful. With early help, warm support, and the right treatment, most children get better and live full and happy lives. Some children may have relapses in the future, but knowing the signs helps you get help quickly. You are your child's best advocate – your support makes a real difference.

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