Could Your Child Be Depressed? Look For These Warning Signs
Depression is not always limited to older adults. Children can also suffer from depression, and it is important to be aware of the signs to provide them with the help they need. You want to be keen to spot depression in your child, as it is a serious mental health illness that can impair their social and cognitive development.
The following are some signs that could indicate depression in kids.
Change in Eating Habits
If you notice any changes in your child's appetite, such as eating less than usual, not eating enough, or overeating, it could be a sign of depression. You might notice that they no longer take pleasure in eating some of the foods they used to love or that they are not interested in food at all.
Usually, this symptom is often accompanied by changes in weight or sudden and drastic body changes. Unfortunately, most parents are unaware of this sign of depression in children and may think that their child is just going through a normal stage. This could cause depression to worsen if your child feels like you are not paying attention to them.
Ask them directly about what they're feeling and why they are eating less. But don't take a harsh tone or blame them for it. They need a safe space to talk to you about their feelings, so be sure to be as compassionate and understanding as you can.
Withdrawal From Activities
It is common for depression in kids to manifest as a lack of interest in things they used to enjoy doing, like playing video games, watching TV, going out with friends, etc. This is especially true if your child's depression has been going on for a while.
If they are no longer interested in activities that used to make them happy, it could be a sign of depression. Take time to talk to your child and find out why they feel this way. It is important to understand what is causing the depression and help your child work through it.
Sometimes, it could be just a phase, but if depression continues, it might be wise to seek help from a depression treatment program for kids. A depression treatment program for kids can provide them with the help they need to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Depending on the severity of depression, treatment may include therapy, lifestyle changes, medications, or a combination of these options. The goal is to give your child the tools they need to cope with depression in a healthy and constructive way.
For more information about depression treatment programs for kids, contact a local provider.
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