Even though depression is more prevalent in adults, children are also affected. However, children may not understand why they are feeling the way they do so it will likely progress. Parents should be on the lookout for any symptoms, and remember- there is no substitute for parents spending time with their children. One way children know that their parents love them is if they spend time with them. One of the best ways to spend time with the kids is through play to make the time fun. Children love to learn through play and they learn very effectively. However, if there are children who are not enjoying the time their parents are spending with them, it is possible they could be suffering from depression.
Symptoms of childhood depression are listed in the following.
1. Feeling sad and lonely all of the time
If your child is always stating that he or she feels lonely and sad, then there is a good chance that he or she is depressed. When children are constantly depressed, it will affect their lives, their school work and the way they relate with other kids and members of the family. Children will be moody for no reason if depression is present.
2. Environmental Factors
The environment in which the children are exposed to can be a cause of depression as it influences mental development. Life experiences that center on the relationship of children with their peers determine the level of their self esteem. If they are not relating well, it is likely to lower self esteem thus causing depression.
3. Genetics
Children who are from families that have a history of depression are at a higher risk of having depression. However, depression in children is not limited to the genetic composition alone. There are those who do not have a genetic history in the family but they may develop depression due to other causes that affect the state of the mind.
4. Economic and social status
The income level of the family can create depression in children if it is making it hard for them to relate to their peers. Children from a modest family find it hard to relate well with those who are from a higher class especially if they have a tendency to show off or make fun of others who have less. It is even worse if the disadvantaged children are treated differently or bullied because of their background.
5. Treatment
Treatment should always be sought for the depressed child. If you suspect your child is depressed, make an appointment with his or her pediatrician immediately.
6. Discussion
Depression is better understood if parents speak to their kids about how they are really feeling and encourage them to be honest. Parents must reassure them that they will not be judged so they are more open to being honest.
If depression is diagnosed in a child early and treated immediately, there is a good chance that the child will recover later in life.
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