Is it possible for my child to be depressed?
While depression is a serious illness, it’s also a treatable one. The sooner your child gets the right help, the better the outcome will be.
Did you know that the biggest myth about childhood depression is that it doesn’t exist?
Although most people associate depression with adults, children and adolescents can suffer from it as well. Unfortunately, many children with depression – especially younger children – go untreated because their parents do not notice that they are depressed, or think it’s just a normal part of growing up.
We chat with the Director of The Beast Foundation Kuziva Mtawarira who holds an honours degree in psychology, on childhood depression and how you can help your child better navigate this misunderstood illness.
At what age can depression be diagnosed?
“Studies suggest that 3% of children between the ages of three and seventeen suffer from depression,” adds Kuziva. “Depression has been diagnosed in children as early as 6 or 7 years old.”
Good to know: According to SADAG (South African Depression And Anxiety Group) data, up to 20% of youngsters will experience depression during their school years.
How has Covid-19 escalated depression rates among children?
The Covid-19 pandemic has created significant disruption and stress in families all around the world. While we are no longer in lockdown, many people are under still severe financial stress, which can have an impact on both parents and children. While children may not understand what is going on, they will notice if their parents are having difficulty coping.
“It is very likely that youngsters may develop depression if they are exposed to stressful situations or live in a stressful environment,” explains Kuziva. “Their natural coping abilities have also been harmed. Because schools were closed for so long, kids didn’t have the luxury of ‘hanging out’ with their peers and playing outside.”
Is sadness normal in children?
Sadness and unhappiness are typical emotions for adults and children alike. However, if these emotions last for an extended period and are frequently encountered, there are grounds for concern.
Signs of childhood depression
The following nine symptoms could indicate your child has depression:
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Low self-esteem – feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Weight changes
- Unusual sadness or increased irritability that persists even when circumstances change
- Feelings of guilt and anger
- Low energy
- Academic success deterioration
- Difficulty concentrating
Good to know: Children with depression may not exhibit all of these signs. However, if several of the symptoms persist for at least two weeks, depression may be suspected.
How does depression in young children get treated?
A child’s depression, like adult sadness, can be treated in a variety of ways.
“The most suggested treatment for children is psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy,” Kuziva explains. “This type of treatment focuses mostly on discussing one’s feelings and thoughts and how they influence one’s behaviour.” “Play therapy is also a terrific way for youngsters who aren’t as vocally equipped to participate in talk therapy.”
According to Kuziva, prescribed medication should be used “cautiously.” However, for the best results, some youngsters are given antidepressants in conjunction with psychotherapy.
What can parents do to help a child who is depressed?
“Your child requires emotional support, and you must be their primary caregiver,” adds Kuziva. She provides the following advice:
- Spend meaningful time with your child
- Promote open and honest communication
- Listen to what your child has to say; acknowledge their inner problems; encourage your child to join a school club or participate in activities that will increase their ‘connection’ with other people; and encourage play dates.
Kuziva also emphasises the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle in order to manage the symptoms of depression (for adults and children).
Where to find help
Cipla SADAG Mental Health Line
- 0800 4567 789 or WhatsApp 076 88 22 775
- For a suicidal Emergency: 0800 567 567
Find a Support Group in your area
- 0800 21 22 23
TherapyRoute TherapyRoute is a mental health service directory and resource that helps people find nearby mental health services, e.g. psychologists, social workers, community clinics, NGO’s, and psychiatric hospitals throughout South Africa (and beyond).https://www.therapyroute.com/
