What does depression look like in a young child? Symptoms can exhibit differently than they do for a grownup, so it’s important for caregivers to be mindful of the potential signs specifically for young children.
Below are indicators of depression curated by our therapists:
- Changes in mood & behavior – may seem sad, grumpy, irritable, agitated, hopeless or lonely, etc., or may become tearful more easily; may display an increase in tantrum-like behaviors
- Low self-esteem – Negative self-talk, self-critical statements and/or thinking (may notice an increase in child saying negative things about themselves, “No one likes me”, “I’m not good at anything”, “It’s always my fault”, I’m worthless” etc.)
- Lack of energy and/or effort
- Not enjoying activities they used to enjoy
- Physical pain – Some children may experience aches and pains such as stomach/body aches (that aren’t actually due to a physical illness)
- Having a hard time paying attention
- Problems at school
- Changes in weight or change in eating habits (eating a lot more or a lot less than usual)
- Shift in sleep patterns (sleeping a lot more or a lot less than usual, frequent nightmares)
- Withdrawal, avoidant behaviors, isolating from others
- Increased anger, anxiousness, aggressive behaviors
If you are concerned about a young child in your life, please contact us online or at 816.363.1898.
