Our mood is a long-lasting and predictable emotional state. It is an internal, pervasive experience of feeling, and mood changes are a normal occurrence at all stages of life. Depending on life circumstances—and sometimes even without them—our mood can shift from normal to elevated or depressed. A healthy person experiences mood fluctuations but retains awareness and control over them.
Sometimes a feeling of sadness or a low mood can last for a longer period, regardless of whether there is an apparent reason or not. In such cases, we may be dealing with depression.
Depression
When it comes to depressive disorder, it is not simply a state of slightly worse mood—it is a condition of significant mood change that affects overall thinking, perception, physical condition, behavior, and social functioning.
When we go through a stressful event—such as war or losing a home, which are among the most stressful experiences one can face—it is natural to feel sad. This is a normal emotional reaction to such an event and typically lasts for a certain amount of time. Depression, however, is not just feeling down or occasionally gloomy. It is a serious psychological disorder. If untreated, depression can lead to serious problems in the family, at school, with peers, substance abuse, and even tragic outcomes such as violence or suicide.
Signs of depression
Today, depression is increasingly common among children and adolescents, which is why it is crucial to pay attention to the signs of depression and take steps to help the child.
The table below lists signs that may indicate depression. If you notice most of these signs lasting for more than two weeks, it would be wise to seek professional help.
A depressed child appears sad, listless, speaks in a monotonous voice, has slowed movements, and seems lonely and withdrawn. Depressed children are often irritable, and they may show symptoms of anxiety, fear, discomfort, and boredom.
Depression in children is often masked by physical complaints such as stomachaches or headaches for which no medical cause can be found. The child's mood may temporarily improve during enjoyable activities, although they engage in them less often than children who are not depressed. A depressed child is excessively self-critical and may fear that others will treat them with the same harshness and criticism they direct at themselves.
Although suicide in this age group is very rare—and even suicide attempts are uncommon—depressed children often express a wish to die, and they may say so when asked.
What can you do to help your child?
- Encourage your child to open up and talk to you about what is bothering them.
- Spend more time with your child than usual—they need you more now than before the signs of depression appeared.
- Show your child that they are accepted, valued, and that you care about them. You can do this through small gestures of attention and praise whenever possible.
- Be understanding—your child is not intentionally feeling bad. Do your best to be patient and compassionate.
- Encourage physical activity, as exercise can help treat depression. Try to incorporate physical activity into your child's daily routine. Even a simple walk or bike ride can help.
- Promote social interaction with other children—withdrawal only worsens depression. Offer to take your child out and suggest activities they might enjoy, such as sports, movies, art or music workshops, etc.
- Be involved in the treatment process. Make sure your child follows treatment instructions and attends therapy. If your child has been prescribed medication, it is especially important they take it regularly. Monitor any changes in your child’s condition and contact their doctor if symptoms worsen.
- Educate yourself about depression—the more you know, the better you can help your child.
- Seek help for your child and yourself. Talk to your family doctor, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, the class teacher, or the school psychologist.
The road to full recovery can be challenging, so be patient. Celebrate small victories, but be prepared for setbacks. Most importantly, don’t blame yourself and don’t compare your family to others.
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