![]() Sometimes depression appears out of the blue, while at other times something seems to trigger it. Often it is a combination of factors. Your child or teenager is more likely to experience depression if they: Usually, there is no one single cause of depression in children and teenagers. What causes depression in children and teenagers? This is another reason to see a doctor as soon as possible if you have any concerns about the mental health of your child or teenager. These other problems can co-exist with depression or present in a similar way to depression. There is a strong association between depression in young people and anxiety, conduct disorders, substance abuse, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and eating disorders. Therefore, if you notice these symptoms, ask your children about them. They may choose to tell their friends before they’re able to talk to adults. Often the feelings that come with depression are so strong they do not tell anyone else because they feel no good, they are scared they are going mad, or they think that no one will believe or support them. Young people may not recognise their problem as depression or, if they do, may feel unable to talk about it. They may ask you to back off or go away. This anger can be mistaken for teenage rebelliousness or an irritable child with behaviour difficulties. experiencing unexplained physical complaints, especially stomach pains.ĭepression in children and young people may look different than it does in adultsĭepression in young people can present as irritability and anger.experiencing muscle tension and headaches.losing their appetite or eating more resulting in weight loss or gain.sitting in one place for long periods, moving, responding and talking very slowly.having other sleep problems, eg, staying up late into the night and sleeping during the day, or waking often during the night.not being able to sleep or wanting to sleep more than usual for their age.unable to sit still, but pacing and wringing their hands.lacking concentration and interest in school work, and may stop wanting to go to school.low, sad or depressed mood that doesn't go away. ![]() However, it’s important to consider other causes too. However, if your child or teenager has had several of them over the past few months and it’s making they're making it hard for them to do everyday things (like study or socialise), depression is a possibility. One or two of the following signs of depression may be just part of growing up. What are the signs of depression in children and teenagers? If they are having thoughts about no longer wanting to be alive, get help from your doctor or free phone or text 1737 from any landline or mobile phone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Depression is a key risk factor for suicide in young people, especially if they are feeling hopeless or stuck and that things won't change.There are lots of things you as a parent can do to help: start a conversation if you notice ongoing changes in their mood, support their emotional wellbeing by prioritising a healthy lifestyle at home, and reduce conflict and hostility at home, which are known to make low mood worse in young people.There are also heaps of great community and online programmes and support groups available. These usually focus on talk therapy and lifestyle changes. There is a range of effective treatments for depression. ![]() Depression is a treatable illness and the sooner your child or teenager gets treatment, the sooner they will start to feel better.
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