Depression In Children: Causes, Symptoms And Advice
Depression is one of the most prevalent mental illnesses. Until a few years ago it was thought that only adults could suffer from it. Thanks to advances in science, we know that depression can also occur in children.
In this article we are going to review what are the causes and symptoms of depressive disorder in minors with the intention of giving some useful tips for coping. It is important to know that behavioral changes occur during the childhood stages that are not pathological, but they must be paid attention to.
Causes of childhood depression
The causes of childhood depression depend on two factors. In the first place we have the organic component; a malfunction of brain structures produces depressive states. On the other hand, there are environmental factors, such as some severe trauma in childhood.
Regarding organic causes, children of parents who suffer from depression are 2 or 4 times more likely to manifest the pathology during childhood. On the other hand, there are factors that have to do with other diseases (comorbidities). For example, children with chronic diseases could become depressed due to the condition of the clinical picture.
Warning signs of depression in children
The warning signs regarding childhood depression depend on the personality characteristics of each child, in addition to the stage of developmental development they are in. That is, if it is in early childhood (0 to 3 years), second childhood (3 to 6-7 years) or third childhood (6-7 to 12 years).
The indicators that we will see below are the most common in cases of depression in children, despite the differences that may exist between one case and another. You should always be on the lookout for these behaviors:
Trouble falling asleep at night.
The child does not feel capable of trying things on his own (thoughts of uselessness).
Loss of appetite, resulting in weight changes.
Excessive slowness in psychomotor responses.
Constant fatigue that has repercussions in the school area.
Trouble staying focused, with distractions and lack of enthusiasm.
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