Depression in Children and Young People

Symptoms often include sadness or a low mood that doesn't go away, being irritable or grumpy, and losing interest in things they used to enjoy.

• Having trouble sleeping or sleeping more than usual.
• Not being able to concentrate.
• Interacting less with friends and family.
• Lacking confidence or being indecisive.
• Eating less than usual or overeating.
• Having big changes in weight.
• Seeming unable to relax or be more lethargic than usual.
• Talking about feeling guilty or worthless.
• Feeling empty or unable to feel emotions (numb).
• Having thoughts about suicide or self-harming.
• Actually self-harming, for example, cutting their skin or taking an overdose.

Things that increase the risk of depression in children include:

• Family difficulties.
• Bullying.
• Physical, emotional or sexual abuse.
• A family history of depression or other mental health problems.

Often it's caused by a mixture of things. For example, your child may have a tendency to get depression and also have experienced some difficult life events.

If you think your child may be depressed, it's important to talk to them.

• Try to find out what's troubling them and how they're feeling. Take it seriously.
• If they don't want to talk to you, let them know you're concerned and there for them. Encourage them to talk to someone else they trust.
• If you think your child is depressed, or you're concerned about their wellbeing, make an appointment with them to see a GP.
• A GP can refer your child to a local children and young people's mental health service (CYPMHS) for specialist help.

Source: Information adapted from the NHS website.