12 Alarming Signs Your Child Is Depressed

Don't ignore these warning signs.

Child suffering from depression fuzznails | Canva
Advertisement

Depression is a real danger for infants and children. Young ones react to emotional upsets, too. All parents must keep their eyes open for signs of childhood depression, and parents suffering from depression must be even more vigilant.

RELATED: I Was So Focused On One Child, I Missed The Signs Of Mental Illness In The Other

 Infant and child depression is a real thing. Parents may notice a child is sad or withdrawn, and infants or children may exhibit a wide variety of symptoms that are just not right. Childhood depression is a serious condition that requires treatment; it is not just a case of the blues that will go away on its own.

Advertisement

Child depression can come about as a result of separation from a parent or caregiver, illness or injury, and childhood abuse or neglect. Sometimes, strange situations can cause children to experience depressive symptoms, like a car accident or witnessing domestic violence.

The signs of infant and child depression vary, making it hard for parents to detect. What parents notice is their child is upset, sad, or moody. When the changes in an infant's or child's behavior are serious enough to concern parents, it is time to check with a pediatrician or child mental health expert.

Advertisement

RELATED: Why So Many More Kids Today Are Facing Depression And Mental Health Issues

Here are 12 alarming signs your child is depressed:

1. Hopelessness and sadness

2. Low energy or fatigue

3. Crying

4. Social withdrawal

5. Difficulty concentrating

6. Appetite and sleep patterns may change

7. Little ones may complain of tummy aches, muscle soreness, or headache

8. Some children become overly sensitive, moody, or angry

9. Falling behind in school

10. Eating disorders

11. Self-harming

12. Suicidal thoughts or behaviors

Comforting a depressed child fizkes via Shutterstock

Children will not have all these symptoms, but parents will notice some concerning changes. A family history of depression, mental illness, or domestic violence are factors that may increase a child's risk of depression.

Advertisement

RELATED: My Childhood Trauma Followed Me Into Adulthood

The great news is that childhood depression is treatable. If the problem is genetic or biochemical, medications can help stabilize mood. Parents should take caution about the potential dangers of antidepressants for children. Some children react to antidepressants by becoming more depressed and potentially suicidal.

Counseling and psychotherapy support the child and the family to turn things around. Parents can work with their child's pediatrician, counselor, psychologist, and teachers to provide support and move a child toward stability and happiness.

If you or somebody that you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, there is a way to get help. Call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or text "HELLO" to 741741 to be connected with the Crisis Text Line.

Advertisement

RELATED: How Kids Heal From Trauma When Working With A Therapist

Darleen Claire is a Personal Development Coach and Parenting Expert with specialization in Parent and Teacher Education, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and Exceptional Student Education. She writes, lectures, and trains on effective relationships, healthy families, and great ways to solve behavior problems of children.

Advertisement