Teen Depression

Signs of Depression in Children and Teens

The behavior of depressed children and teenagers may differ from the behavior of depressed adults. Child and adolescent psychiatrists advise parents to be aware of signs of depression in their children.

If one or more of these signs of depression persist, parents should seek help:

• Frequent sadness, tearfulness, crying
• Hopelessness
• Decreased interest in activities or inability to enjoy previously favorite activities
• Persistent boredom or low energy
• Social isolation, poor communication
• Low self esteem and guilt
• Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure
• Increased irritability, anger or hostility
• Difficulty with relationships
• Frequent complaints of physical illnesses such as headaches or stomachaches
• Frequent absences from school or poor performance in school
• Poor concentration
• A major change in eating and/or sleeping patterns
• Talk of or efforts to run away from home
• Thoughts or expressions of suicide or self harm behavior
• Anxiety
• Giving away or selling valuable or cherished possessions