How To Check For Depression In Your Child

Filed in archive Kid's Health , Mental Maladies on July 4, 2010

© Pink Sherbet Photography

If you're wondering why your teenage child doesn't seem to be as happy as he or she usually is, you may have to rule out depression.

How do you get to thinking about depression in your kids? Look for the following signs:

1. Your child is always bored, low on energy and has difficulty concentrating even on things they usually have so much fun in.

2. There is no interest in things your child used to love. If your son is into basketball, try to note down how less often he is playing the next couple of weeks.

3. Lots of school problems and frequently absent from class. If the school teacher gives you a call to report poor attendance on the part of your child, check for depression.

4. Frequent complaints of minor illnesses like headaches, upset stomach or some other minor symptom.

5. A significantly poor appetite. Check if your child is eating less food, especially if you know what's on the dining table is a favorite.

6. Either has a tough time going to bed or stays too long in bed. Regardless of the actual time of the day your child gets to bed, try to check if he or she is still getting seven to nine hours of sleep.

7. Has a lot of relationship issues. Is your child having too much trouble with friends or siblings?

8. An unusual excitement about death. Why on earth would any child be so interested in death?