Spotting Depression in Kids: Early Signs and How to Help

Your child might be going through transitions or facing challenging situations in life. If they seem moody on most days and don’t behave like their usual self, and you notice they’re not engaging much in their hobbies or with the people around them, you might wonder if they are experiencing depression.
It is normal for children to feel sad or frustrated occasionally. However, if you have observed these changes in your child most of the time over the past two weeks, and these changes interfere with their daily activities, your child might be experiencing clinical depression.

Signs and Symptoms of Clinical Depression

  • Persistent feelings of sadness, irritability, hopelessness, or emptiness
  • Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Insomnia or excessive sleeping
  • Feeling slowed down or restless
  • Fatigue or loss of energy
  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
  • Unexplained physical complaints (e.g., headaches or abdominal pain)

How to Help Your Child

  • Listen to your child with genuine interest and curiosity about what they are going through.
  • Acknowledge and communicate that their emotions and experiences have been heard, even if expressing them is difficult at the moment. Your child needs to know that their feelings are important, even if you don’t fully understand or agree with them. This helps build trust and openness.
  • Be mindful of your own emotions if your child shuts you out or appears rude.
  • Prioritize quality time with your child. Remind them that you are available when they need you.
  • Encourage your child to continue engaging in hobbies and social activities, even if only for a short time.
  • Promote healthy habits such as regular exercise, balanced meals, and a consistent sleep routine.
If you notice thoughts of suicide or the use of harmful coping strategies like self-harm or substance use, it’s crucial to maintain a safe environment and seek help immediately:
  • Regularly check in on your child.
  • Ensure window grilles are locked, and keep sharp objects and medications out of reach.
  • Acknowledge that substance use may provide temporary relief but has long-term negative effects.
  • Seek support from your child’s school for possible accommodations during this period.
  • Seek professional help from psychiatrists or psychologists who can provide individualized care for your child.
Identifying clinical depression early is crucial for your child’s overall well-being. Remember, you are not alone, and getting support for both you and your child can significantly aid in the recovery process.
If you are concerned about your child’s mental health, we encourage you to seek professional help from our experienced psychiatrists and child psychologists at Private Space Medical. Your child's well-being is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule an appointment with us today.
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Justine Xue
Senior Psychologist