Childhood
Depression Is A Disorder
Childhood depression is more than just a child having a bad day
or feeling sad. Childhood depression is even deeper than a
child having to deal with major life crisis such as the death
of a loved one. Childhood depression is a disorder and the
child cannot snap out of it or ignore it. It is only in the
past decade or so that the subject of childhood depression has
been brought into the light. It is important that people
understand that children can suffer from depression just like
adults.
Childhood depression is often marked by a child having a
persistent sadness that will not go away. The child may feel
hopelessness, irritability and may become easily agitated. The
child may withdraw from friends, family and even things they
once enjoyed doing, such as participating in sports or doing a
hobby. A child who is suffering from childhood depression may
miss school or have a decrease in their school performance.
A child who suffers from childhood depression may be
indecisive, forgetful and lack the ability concentrate. The
child may feel guilty over the way that he or she feels and
have a low self esteem. The child’s sleeping and eating
patterns may change. The child may also have physical
complaints such as stomachaches or headaches. The child may
have low motivation and feel tired all the time. The child may
have a flat or empty mood.
It should be noted that nearly one-third of children who are
diagnosed with childhood depression between 6 and 12 go on to
develop bipolar disorder as they mature. According to the
United States Select Committee on Children, Youth and Family,
four out of five children who runaway from home may suffer from
childhood depression. If there is a child in your life you
should always be on the lookout for any changes in his or her
life. Note any behaviors that concern you. You should also note
how long they go on and how severe they are. If you do notice
anything it is a good idea to take your child to the doctor for
a complete physical evaluation and/or diagnosis.
Diagnosis and treatment of childhood depression is crucial.
Children should be referred to a mental health professional
that specializes in childhood depression. Treatment of
childhood depression can include ongoing evaluation, medication
and therapy.
Here are some important things you should know about
childhood depression:
1. The U.S. Center for Mental Health Services reported
that nearly 1 in 8 adolescents may have depression.
2. Children who have a major depression are more likely
to have another depression within five years.
3. Nearly two-thirds of children with childhood
depression or mental problems do not receive the help they
need.
4. Suicide
is the sixth leading cause of death in children who are between
the ages of 5 and 15. It is the third leading cause of death in
young people between the ages of 15 and 24. The suicide rate of
5 to 24 year olds has tripled since 1960.
5. Treatment for childhood depression is as effective as
treatment of depression in adults.
No child should ever have to suffer with childhood depression
on their own. When a child has depression it is usually
recommended that the entire family become involved in therapy,
learn about the depression and how to help the child through
the difficult time. It is important that you try to keep the
lines of communication open between you and your child. This
will help your child feel comfortable coming and talking to you
about any problems that he or she may be
having.
| 
Delicious
Google Bookmarks
Stumbleupon
Digg
BlinkList
Ma.gnolia
Reddit
Yahoo My Web