What is depression?

Depression is a syndrome of emotional pain, sadness or disappointment that is either prolonged (greater than 6 weeks), and/or interferes with everyday tasks.

How common is depression in youth and adolescents?

Depression is a common clinical problem that affects from 2% to 5% of all children and adolescents. As many as 20% of adolescents have had an episode of significant depression by the time they are 18years of age, as many more up to 65% have had transient, less severe depressive symptoms.

What causes depression in youth?

In the adolescent transitioning from child to young adulthood predisposes the teen to depression. Issues related to peer pressure, academic achievement, sex/sexuality, tension in parent/child relationships alongside poor self-esteem lead to sadness and disappointment.

In the school-aged child stress at home (change in family structure, relocating, poor parent/child relationships, abuse, and foster care) causes adjustment reactions that can lead to depression.

How can I recognize depression in my child?

Adolescents mask depression.

Emotional: Symptoms include: irritability, lack of interest in usual activity, fatigue, prolonged sleeping, and high-risk behavior (alcohol, drugs, sex). Complaints of worthlessness are also common.

Physical: Weight gain or loss, complaints of headache or nonspecific muscle pain.

School-Aged: Children in this age group exhibit more emotional features or "act out," such as agitation at home and school, poor concentration, aggression with siblings or classmates or verbal aggression.

What should I do if these symptoms occur?

Early recognition is the key! Should you notice any of these symptoms in your child or adolescent, speak with your health care provider who will develop a plan of care with you and assist you in accesses supportive services.

Reminder

The faces of pain are changing. Home stressors and parent/child relationships are primary causes for emotional pain in children and teens. Early recognition with accessing services is necessary to improve.