Parenting Tips on Oct. 1 Fox 4 Morning News: Can Children Get Depressed?

Children are generally happy, joyful and full of life. But what about the toddler sitting on the bench not playing with other children? Is she just having a bad day or is something else going on?  As many as one in 33 children and one in eight adolescents have clinical depression.  Learn how you can identify depression in children, and tips for how to help your child start feeling better.

Some Signs of Depression

• Frequent sadness, tearfulness, and /or crying
• Hopelessness
• Decreased interest in activities or inability to enjoy previously enjoyed activities
• Persistent boredom
• Low energy
• Inability to experience joy
• Poor communication
• Low self esteem and feelings of not being important to anyone
• Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure
• Increased irritability, anger or hostility
• Poor concentration
• A major change in eating and/or sleeping habits

Getting Help

• Parents should seek professional help
• The involvement of the family is essential
• Antidepressants may be used when indicated, but should not be the only treatment provided
• Be aware of the risks that medications carry
• Medications are most successful when combined with other treatments, such as play therapy