Depression is not only for adults but kids can also be effected by the disease. Albeit being brought up differently, kids may get exposed to different surroundings. Those situations can put a child into depression at some level. Although, the disease varies from child to child, it can hamper them both physically and mentally. This moody-ness can effect their performance in their daily activities and hobbies.
Causes of depression and anxiety in children
Depression and anxiety can result due to different reasons. There is no single source of the issue discovered yet. Sometimes gender also plays a role in adaptation of such diseases.
However, in most cases it is reported that kids get affected to such issues due to traumatic events. Some experience a great loss or trauma from a very young age and some due to serious health problems. These things can create sadness and grief, and in some cases anger.
Some of the noted causes of depression are:
- Use of drugs or alcohol.
- Physical illness.
- Family problems or disturbed environment.
- Stressful happenings or events.
- Someone in the family having depression issues.
Symptoms of childhood depression are:
- Low stamina or general exhaustion.
- sudden modifications in eating or sleeping habits.
- Sadness or a sense of hopelessness.
- A lack of enthusiasm for enjoyable activities.
- Changes in mood, such as irritability.
- School-related behavioral issues.
Symptoms of anxiety in children:
- Afraid of being separated from a parent.
- Concerns about their future.
- Concern that a parent or loved one might die.
- Sweating and dizziness are physical symptoms of panic.
- Refusal to attend a school or participate in social activities.
Depression and anxiety are two of the most common mental health disorders in children.
Treatment for Childhood Depression
To treat child depression a treatment called Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is used. In this treatment, therapist make the kids feel warm and supported. They slowly get the kids to open up to them about their thoughts and feelings. They take use of stories, games, lessons, or workbooks in order to get mentally close to the kids. These things help the therapist build a bond with the kids for them to feel welcomed and sympathetic.
Whenever possible, a child’s therapy should include their parent.
Children who have suffered a loss or trauma, the therapy includes techniques to help the child heal from such events as well.
Depression can be caused by certain life events, or due to a biological cause. Even as a parent it is not easy to always control the stressors in your child’s life. However, you can help your child stay away such mental health issues by ensuring the below activities:
- Daily exercise.
- Talk to your child about their feelings and thoughts.
- Create a secure and supportive environment.
- Ensure plenty of rest.
- Spend time with them.
- Be patient and kind.
- Balanced meals.
Seek medical help:
If any symptoms of depression persist in your kid, irrespective of their age, and worries you of having triggered suicidal thoughts in them; then consult a doctor or a mental health professional. Some schools also have Councillors, which could be a good place to start with.
Depression symptoms are unlikely to get better on its own. It is should be treated as soon as possible or else could get worsen. Sometimes, in teenagers, symptoms doesn’t show but they could be at the risk of suicide.
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