Depression in Children and Adolescents
Only in the past two decades has depression in children been taken
very seriously. The depressed child may pretend to be sick, refuse
to go to school, cling to a parent, or worry that the parent may
die. Older children may sulk, get into trouble at school, be
negative, grouchy, and feel misunderstood.
Because normal behaviors vary from one childhood stage to another,
it can be difficult to tell whether a child is just going through a
temporary "phase" or is suffering from depression. Sometimes the
parents become worried about how the child's behavior has changed,
or a teacher mentions that "your child doesn't seem to be himself."
In such a case, if a visit to the child's pediatrician rules out
physical symptoms, the doctor will probably suggest that the child
be evaluated, preferably by a psychiatrist who specializes in the
treatment of children.
more>>
Additional information on depression, not specific to children and
adolescents, including details on signs and symptoms, treatment
options, research, and where to go for help.
more>>
Related
Information
·
Treatment
o
Treatment of Children with Mental Disorders
o
Your Child and Medication
·
Child and Adolescent Bipolar Disorder: An Update from NIMH
·
Children and Violence
·
Child and Adolescent Mental Health
·
Antidepressant Medications for Children and Adolescents: Information
for Parents and Caregivers
·
Clinical Trials
·
Information about medications
·
Depression Information and Organizations from
NLM's MedlinePlus
(en
Espaņol)
·
Some mental illnesses also carry an increased risk for
suicide.
News
·
Combination Treatment Most Effective in Adolescents with Depression
Publications/Resource Materials
Read, print, or order NIMH booklets, fact sheets, and other
publications on depression in children and adolescents such as:
Let's Talk About Depression
A fact sheet that describes the symptoms of depression and bipolar
disorder and how young people can get help for themselves or their
friends.
What to do When a Friend is Depressed
A fact sheet that describes how to spot depression in friends and
get them help.
What do These Students Have in Common?
A booklet that describes how the stresses of college can lead to
depression, with information on symptoms, causes, treatments, and
getting help.
|
