How to recognize the signs of depression in children

There’s no doubt the ongoing stress and uncertainty of COVID-19 is taking a toll on our mental health. The effects of the pandemic have been especially hard on children and young adults who are struggling with a disruption to their routine, social isolation from friends, and anxiety about the future.

If you’re worried about how your child is coping with COVID-19, read on to learn more about childhood depression, symptoms to watch out for, and what you can do to help improve their mental health.

[Photo Credit: diego cervo]

While all children can feel a little blue from time to time, childhood depression is a more serious mood disorder that impacts their emotional state, sleep, concentration, and energy levels. Unlike typical feelings of sadness, depression can last for weeks or months at a time and interferes with everyday functioning. According to The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), about two per cent of children and eight per cent of teens in Canada experience depression.

Childhood depression symptoms can be hard to identify as young people may not be willing or able to discuss their feelings and emotions. Biological, psychological, and social factors can all contribute to depression in children. If you’re concerned your child may have a more serious mood disorder, look for changes in the way they think, feel, and act. Symptoms may include the following:

Changes in emotions and cognition

• Fussiness, irritability, and a generally low mood
• Negative thoughts or feelings of worthlessness
• Feeling helpless, lonely, guilty, or fearful

Changes in physical health

• Trouble sleeping and complaints of fatigue or a loss of energy
• Dramatic fluctuations in weight and/or a change in appetite
• Headaches, stomach aches, or general aches and pains

Changes in behaviour

• Loss of interest in daily activities
• Difficulty concentrating on schoolwork and a drop in academic performance
• Acting clingy or wanting to be alone often
• More frequent and intense emotional outbursts

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There are a variety of treatments for childhood depression that range from lifestyle changes to counselling to anti-depressant medications. With that in mind, it’s important to consider different options and determine the best treatment plan for your family.

• Focus on self-care at home
  Promote good mental health at home by acting as a positive role model and creating a supportive, nurturing family environment. Encourage open communication by talking to your child about their feelings (and your own) and offering them validation and reassurance. Combat the uncertainty of COVID-19 by creating a routine, whether that’s eating dinner together every night or taking a morning walk. Teach your child calming mechanisms like deep breathing and mindfulness exercises to help them overcome negative thoughts and stressors.

• Explore school resources
  Talk to teachers about your child’s academic performance and social functioning to see if they’ve noticed any red flags that might signify a serious issue. Their school may even offer counselling services or support programs for children who are struggling with mental health disorders.
• Talk to your family doctor
  If your child’s mental health continues to impact their ability to enjoy daily life, make an appointment with your family doctor to discuss whether further medical attention is necessary. Ongoing counselling from a psychiatrist or psychologist or prescription medication might be recommended to help treat your child’s depressive symptoms.