Children & Adolescents with Depression

Children & Adolescents with Depression

Children and Adolescents with Depressive Disorders
by Merrilee Peske, M.S., L.M.F.T

 Does your child or teen appear persistently sad, irritable, or angry, in a way that interferes with his or her ability to function? Have you noticed a decreased interest in daily activities? Has he or she had a dramatic change in appetite or weight? Are thoughts of dying* or self-harm ever mentioned or noticed? These are a few of the most common signs that your child or teenager might be experiencing depression. 

Other signs and symptoms include:

  • Either excessive sleepiness or insomnia
  • Fatigue or loss of energy
  • Either restlessness or reduced movement
  • Feelings of worthlessness
  • Decreased ability to concentrate

Facts about Depression in Children and Adolescents

  • Depression is present in 2% of children and 4-8% of adolescents. It is equally prevalent in boys and girls in childhood, and twice as prevalent in adolescent females than males.
  • Depression is caused by an interaction of genetic and environmental factors (such as loss, abuse, neglect, trauma, conflict). A strong family history of depression is the most predictive factor of a child or adolescent developing a depressive disorder.
  • 40-90% of adolescents with depression also have other psychiatric disorders, most commonly anxiety disorders, followed by disruptive disorders, ADHD, and substance use disorders.
  • 60% of children and adolescents with depression report having thought about suicide; 30% report attempting to commit suicide.

Treatment for Children and Adolescents with Depression

  • Parental involvement is needed to support treatment, which can include advocating for children/adolescents with the school if needed.
  • Treatment can range from education to therapy to medication, depending on the severity of the depression.
  • Moderate depression may respond to therapy alone. Research shows cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) to be the most effective.
  • More severe depression will usually require treatment with antidepressant medication as well.

*If you believe your child or teen is at risk for suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) or go to your nearest emergency room.

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