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Childhood depression: signs and solutions
Sad to say that many children do suffer from depression.
While we as parents do not want to believe this is so, we must acknowledge that at times our children do suffer.
Knowing how to recognize the symptoms of childhood depression and how to deal with them as a parent makes all the difference.
The most important part for an adult is to notice — to be mindful of what is happening and to intervene as soon as possible.
Here are some of the warning signs commonly associated with childhood depression:
- A child who is usually outgoing becomes withdrawn. For example, the child wants to spend more time in his room, shows little spontaneous joy and generally has a flat or unemotional affect.
- Inability to complete project assignments or other tasks at school.
- A child who, over a period of time, displays bursts of irritability or anger that seem unusual for him.
- Anxiety, tense, clingy or panicky. A child who does not want to be left alone and frequently seeks reassurance because of anxieties.
- Difficulty concentrating, having scattered thoughts, expressing negative thoughts about themselves and the world. Feelings of hopelessness.
- Suicidal thoughts — these thoughts are not exclusive to adults.
The good news is these symptoms of depression usually are manageable and treatable.
Children are vulnerable, deeply feeling. bright and needy in a healthy sense. They need validation, emotional support, comfort, reassurance and understanding.
A parent or caregiver must give meaning to a child’s world. A parent’s listening, caring and providing space will make a child feel understood and loved.
Often depressive symptoms are manifested due to loneliness and isolation, where children feel that how they feel and what they think does not matter.
Take time every day to talk with your child, have meals with your child, play with your child. With this attention you will see many of these depressive symptoms reverse over time. Be consistent and open — children will show you what they need. A parent’s job is to pay attention.
If you continue to struggle and do not see your child’s symptoms easing, then seek professional help.
A good therapist can see many of the “blind spots” connected with childhood depression. The therapist will help you and your child get back on track.
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CDs to soothe the soul
My Relaxation Reverie CD collection offers meditation, guided-imagery and relaxation audio. My new website, Cozy Children, is the place for children's audio stories.
Here are three audio samples:
Fall Reverie
Magic Forest
Toy Store
If every mother and father took the time to read this article, and the section on children and teens in the That’s Not Love! book, there would be less depression and suicides in teens, I feel certain. Some of the most basic and simple disciplines, such as listening and being patient, seem to get lost in the daily routines. When our kids get old enough to do things for themselves, it’s easy to forget they still need a lot, and at some ages, need even more than they did as toddlers. The teen years are the time to step up the listening and caring skills, and reading about it in Dr. Wood’s book and articles has given our family guidance & direction I simply could not find elsewhere.
Cece Whittaker, author & composer