Depression affects approximately 5% of adolescents. Major depression often begins between the ages of 15 and 30, but it can appear in children. In childhood, boys and girls appear to be at equal risk for depression; but during adolescence, girls are twice as likely as boys to develop depression.
Because normal behaviors vary from one childhood stage to another, it can be difficult to tell whether a child is just going through a temporary phase or is suffering from depression. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) provides a list of symptoms and signs to help identify when a child is suffering from depression.
Note : Not every depressed child will experience every symptom—some will experience a few symptoms, some many; and the severity of symptoms will vary from child to child. Depression can be very serious, but it is treatable. If your child is showing any of these signs and symptoms, talk with your child's pediatrician.
RESOURCES:
American Psychological Association
http://www.apa.org/
National Institute of Mental Health
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Mental Health Association
http://www.ontario.cmha.ca/index.asp
Mental Health Canada
http://www.mentalhealthcanada.com/
Last reviewed January 2009 by J. Thomas Megerian, MD, PhD, FAAP
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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