VIDEO
Childhood Depression: A Parent’s Primer
Know the signs of depression in children
Children and teenagers can experience depression just as adults can.
The signs of depression in children and teenagers include being angry or irritable, overeating or not eating enough, having trouble sleeping or sleeping too much, difficulty concentrating, loss of energy or low motivation, feelings of sadness, crying more than usual, headaches, stomachaches, lack of interest in playing with friends, frequent absences from school or poor performance in school, drug or alcohol abuse, or thoughts of death or suicide.
Look for behaviors that are out of the ordinary. For example, missing money can be a sign that a teenager is stealing to buy alcohol or drugs.
If you see signs of depression, talk with your child, listen carefully, and get professional help.
Depression is treatable
Your health care provider, school counselor, or EAP can help you find a counselor or therapist.
