Though the term “depression” can describe a normal human emotion, it also can refer to a psychiatric disorder. Depressive illness in children and adolescents includes a cluster of symptoms which have been present for at least two weeks.
In addition to feelings of sadness and/or irritability, a depressive illness includes several of the following:
* Change of appetite with either significant weight loss (when not dieting) or weight gain * Change in sleeping patterns (such as trouble falling asleep, waking up in the middle of the night, early morning awakening, or sleeping too much) * Loss of interest in activities formerly enjoyed * Loss of energy, fatigue, feeling slowed down for no reason, “burned out” * Feelings of guilt and self blame for things that are not one’s fault * Inability to concentrate and indecisiveness * Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
* Recurring thought of death and suicide, wishing to die, or attempting suicide
Children and adolescents with depression may also have symptoms of irritability, grumpiness, and boredom. They may have vague, non-specific physical complaints (stomachaches, headaches, etc.). There is an increased incidence of depressive illness in the children of parents with significant depression.
Related Links
Problems of Children & Teens
Learning Disorders
ADHD
Conduct Disorder
Physical Abuse
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Sexual Abuse
Tourettes Syndrome
Adoption
Aspergers
Autism
Bullying
Divorce
Fighting & Biting
Foster Care
Mental Retardation
Panic Disorder
Separation Anxiety
Teens Specifically
Alcohol & Drug Abuse
Anorexia Nervosa
Bulimia Nervosa
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Psychosis
Schizophrenia
Suicide
Sex
Stress
Pregnancy
Self-Injury
Adolescent Development
AIDS
Gay & Lesbian Teens
Stealing
Seeking Treatment
Child Psychology
Adolescent Psychology
Developmental Psychology