Unfortunately, manychildren with depression go untreatedbecause adults don’t recognize they’re depressed.
It’s important for parents, teachers, and other adults to learn about childhood depression.
As they mature, symptom presentation becomes more consistent with the DSM-5-TR criteria.
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
Depression in children and teens usually presents differently than it does in adults.
They may have more nightmares and difficulty sleeping.
Irritability and/or anger are more common signs of depression in older children and teens.
They may not want to spend time with their friends or participate in their usual activities.
They may complain of stomach aches, headaches, and not feeling well to avoid going to school.
Teens may attempt to hide their emotional pain, fearing judgment from others.
The first step towards helping your child battle depression is learning how to spot it.
It also isn’t your fault if your child is depressed.
However, there may be some things you could do to help.
Before arriving at a diagnosis, your child should undergo a comprehensive physical evaluation.
This will rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to the symptoms you are seeing.
For example, thyroid problems, anemia, and vitamin deficiency can all mimic symptoms of depression.
If their symptoms persist after 6 to 8 weeks of support, they will be referred for psychotherapy.
Psychotherapy, medications, or a combination of the two have been shown to help young people with depression.
The kind of treatment recommended for your child will depend on the nature and severity of their depression.
Psychotherapy
If your child is diagnosed with mild depression, the APA recommendspsychotherapyas a first-line treatment.
The APA recommends that psychotherapy always be a component of treatment for childhood and adolescent depression.
Medications
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors(SSRIs) are considered the first-lineantidepressant optionfor young people with depression.
Only two SSRIsProzac(fluoxetine) andLexapro(escitalopram)are FDA-approved for use in young people with depression.
This is referred to as off-label use, and it is a fairly common practice.
This does not mean thatantidepressants should not be usedby people in this age group.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Talk to your child about their feelings, and be careful to remain supportive and non-judgmental.
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.Depression in children and teens.
Treatment and ongoing management.Pediatrics.
2018;141(3).
doi:10.1542/peds.2017-4082
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry,Depression: Parents Medication Guide.
American Psychiatric Association; 2018.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Suicidality in children and adolescents being treated with antidepressant medications.
