• In fact, Childhood depression affects one in five children.  It is often described as a whole body illness that negatively influences a child's learning as well as their emotional and social development.  Many children who are mistakenly seen as shy or (the opposite) acting out at home and at school, are actually suffering from symptoms of depression.

What are the symptoms of depression in children?  

• Depressed or irritable mood, for more days than not, lasting for at least two weeks.  This mood involves a general irritability, ("crankiness") or patterns of anger outburst.
• Loneliness or self-pity, "life is not fair" type perspective.
• Diminished interest or pleasure in all, or most all activities, (Every thing is and remains "dumb or boring").
• Significant changes in weight or appetite, not related to other illness.
• Expressed feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt.
• Diminished ability to think, concentrate or make decisions.
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, (particularly including plans for self-harm behavior).

What is the treatment for childhood Depression? 

• Some forms of depression in children can be treated with counseling alone.  Counseling with children generally involves one to one interaction through games, activities and homework exercises to assist the child in managing their symptoms.  In addition most therapists involve parents in the form of education and support to assist the child in resuming normal activities that have been avoided or abandoned due to symptoms of depression. 
• Other more resistant forms of depression, or prolonged untreated depression in children, are best treated with a combination of antidepressant medication, (under a physician's care and supervision) and counseling.  Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in the development of a child.  Consult your primary care physician or mental health professional for specific information and treatment recommendations.