Depression does not just affect adults. Children and young people can get depressed too.
Almost 1 in 5 young people may experience depression before age 18.
If you think your child may be depressed, get help as soon as you can. The longer it goes on, the more likely it is to affect your child's life and become a long-term problem.
Signs of depression in a child or young person
Signs of depression in a child or young person often include:
- sadness, or a low mood that does not go away
- being irritable most of the time
- having no interest in things they used to enjoy
- feeling tired and exhausted a lot of the time
The child or young person may also:
- find it hard to concentrate
- lack confidence
- be indecisive
- seem unable to relax or have less energy than usual
- talk about feeling guilty or worthless
- feel empty or unable to feel emotions
- have thoughts about suicide or self-harming
Some of these symptoms may be caused by low confidence or anxiety. They may not have depression.
Physical symptoms
Some children or young people may have physical symptoms that are related to depression.
These can include:
- headaches
- stomach aches
- unexplained aches and pains
- changes in weight or appetite
- trouble sleeping or sleeping more than usual
Social symptoms
Socially, a child or young person with depression may:
- withdraw from friends and family
- have problems in school
- have problem behaviour outside of school, such as outbursts of anger
- use drugs or alcohol to help them cope
If you think your child is depressed
Talk to your child if you think they may be depressed. Try to find out what's troubling them and how they are feeling.
They may not understand the changes in their thinking and mood. They may find it difficult to tell you about it.
How to talk to your child if you think they may be depressed
When talking to your child about how they are feeling:
- stay calm and caring
- accept them as they are and do not judge them
- take them seriously - what may not be a big thing to you could be for them
- tell them you are concerned and that you are there if you need them
- encourage them to talk to someone they trust such as a family member, friend, teacher or school nurse
It may be helpful for you to talk to other people who know your child, including their other parent.
You could also contact their school to see if they have any concerns.
When to get medical help
If you think your child is depressed, make an appointment for them to see their GP.
The GP may recommend your child talks to a trained therapist such as a counsellor, psychologist or psychotherapist.
A therapist can help your child deal with negative thoughts and feelings. They help your child to make positive changes.
The GP may refer your child for specialist help at your local child and adolescent mental health service (CAMHS).
Emergency action required: Contact a GP, GP out of hours or bring your child to an emergency department (ED) if
you think their depression could cause them to:
- self-harm
- have suicidal thoughts
Getting support
Children and young people can get help from a range of organisations offering free confidential advice, information and support by phone and messaging.