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Depression in children & teens

What is depression in children & teens?
Depression in young people is serious. It can lead to failing in school, drug and alcohol use - even suicide. Yet with children and teens it can be hard to tell the difference between depression and behavior that is "just a phase." Often, depression will be suspected when parents notice a change in their child's behavior, or when someone like a teacher or coach says that the child "doesn't seem to be herself." These clues could mean it's time to have the child evaluated by a professional. Some things to know:
  • About 4% of teens experience serious depression every year.
  • At any given time, 10% to 15% of children and teens have some symptoms of depression.
  • Once a child or teen has depression, he or she is at risk of developing it again within the next five years.
  • Teens with depression are likely to identify themselves as depressed before their parents think there's a problem.

Signs & symptoms
Whether a child's or teen's behavior is "part of growing up" or actual depression, parents and caregivers need to be aware of the possibility of depression and its most common signs.  For younger children, these signs include:
  • Pretending to be sick
  • Refusing to go to school or participate in regular activities
  • Becoming more clingy with parents
  • Expressing worry about potential events such as a parent dying

Among teens, the signs to be aware of include:
  • Sulking
  • Getting into trouble
  • Becoming increasingly negative or grouchy
  • Feeling misunderstood

Who's at risk?
Many factors can play a role in depression. Some people might have many contributing causes while others have just one. Still others seem to develop depression for no apparent reason. Some risk factors for children and teens:
  • History of depression in the family
  • Drug or alcohol abuse
  • Gender. Girls experience almost twice as much depression as boys.
  • Problems with school or relationships, especially those with the opposite sex
  • Difficult life events like parental divorce or the death of someone close

Professional help
Treatment for depression may include talk therapy with a psychologist or social worker. A psychiatrist will supervise any medication that may be needed. You should feel free to ask questions about the therapy plan, medications and side effects, and whether other family members will be asked to participate.

Priority Health members can check here for information on getting mental health assistance.

What you can do
If your child is showing signs of being depressed, your first step is to schedule an appointment with the child's pediatrician or doctor to rule out physical problems. Then the doctor will, if necessary, suggest an evaluation by a mental health professional. It also helps to become more knowledgeable about depression and its effects. Read more:

Last modified 07/21/08