Depression

Signs of depression in children

• Sad or bad mood that lasts weeks or months
• Physical symptoms, such as aches, pains and restlessness
• Loss of interest in usual fun activities
• Withdrawal from social or usual pleasurable activities
• Running away from home or talking about running away from home
• Talking about death or dying, giving up
• Sleep increase (or decrease)
• Appetite/weight changes
• Comments indicating hopelessness or low self-worth

Facts about depression

• 1 in 10 children in Virginia suffer from anxiety or depression
• Depression spans across populations, including gender, socioeconomic status, ethnic groups, etc.
• There is no cutoff age for depression; children as young as two have displayed depressed mood.
• A family history of depression or other mood disorders is a risk factor for a child to develop depression.

What should I do if I think my child is depressed?

• Validate their feelings.
• Thank them for sharing what is going on and for opening up to you.
• Let them know you’re there to support them and can get them help if needed.
• Ask to go for a walk (or suggest something that the child/teen would enjoy).
• Talk with your child about sadness and depression.
• Set up a visit with your child's primary care doctor.
• Set up a visit with a child therapist.
• Be patient and kind with your child.
• Enjoy time together with your child.