Depression

Depression is a type of mood disorder. A main indicator is when kids are sad, discouraged, or upset for weeks, months, or even longer. Another sign a child might have depression is negative thinking. This includes focusing on problems that are mostly critical and self critical and can interrupt energy, concentration, sleep and eating habits.  Children with depression may loose interest in school, seem tired, give up easily, or withdraw from friends or family.

Symptoms Of Depression

  • Withdrawal from friends and family
  • Unexplained aches and pains
  • Increased sensitivity to rejection
  • Thoughts of death or suicide
  • Changes in appetite -- either increased or decreased
  • Continuous feelings of sadness and hopelessness
  • Vocal outbursts or crying
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Fatigue and low energy
  • Changes in eating and sleeping habits
  • Irritability or anger
  • Reduced ability to function during events and activities at home or with friends, in school, extracurricular activities, and in other hobbies or interests
  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
  • Sadness or hopelessness
"Not until we are lost do we begin to understand ourselves"

-Henry David Thoreau

Helpful Resources For Depression

Depression: A Guide for Teens. Information for the causes and effects on teenage depression and strategies to cope with depression.
HealthyPlace.com is the largest consumer mental health site, providing comprehensive, trusted information on psychological disorders and psychiatric medications from both a consumer and expert point of view.
Erika's Lighthouse is a comprehensive resources for parents of children that are dealing with depression.