Depression isn’t always sadness. It can show up as anger or irritability. Falling grades, sleeping too much or too little, avoiding friends, or frequently complaining about headaches and stomachaches are other possibilities.
That’s why some parents write off warning signs as hormonal changes or growing pains. Nearly one in seven (14%) 10–19-year-olds worldwide suffer from a mental disorder, and UNICEF says childhood depression is on the rise. Depression and anxiety are among the top causes of illness and disability among teens.
So, how can parents in India spot the signs of depression? Here are five things to look out for.
1. Irritability or Anger
A happy kid suddenly getting inexplicably angry or upset could be displaying signs of depression. Many kids are moody sometimes. But if your child seems constantly irritable, it could be cause for concern — especially if they’re older.
Some depressed teenagers don’t say, “Hey, I’m feeling down.” They might just fly off the handle or pull away emotionally.
2. Withdrawal From Activities They Enjoyed
Losing interest in activities your child loves is another key sign.
Does your child love cricket, dancing, playing video games, drawing, singing, or spending time with friends? Suddenly being unwilling to do these things can indicate depression. Withdrawal from activities kids used to enjoy is a classic sign of depression.
3. Sleeping or Eating Too Much or Too Little
Depression can cause some kids to sleep far more than usual. They might struggle to sleep at night but crash during the day. Or they might always seem tired. Other kids lose their appetite and eat very little. Some overeat.
Again, every child is different. But if your kid suddenly starts sleeping a lot more (or less) or drastically changes their eating habits and this change doesn’t go away, take note.
4. Grades suddenly drop or they don’t want to go to school anymore
Children who suddenly don’t want to go to school, stop completing homework, or can’t concentrate in class may be depressed. Don’t assume they’re just lazy or acting out.
A child who loved school suddenly becoming listless can be due to depression. As with other signs on this list, look for a change from their typical behaviour. And if they suddenly start getting bad grades, look closer to see if it could be depression.
5. Complaints About Stomachaches and Headaches
Headaches and stomachaches can be symptoms of depression, especially in young children who can’t always express themselves verbally. If your child frequently complains of feeling sick but you can’t find a cause, it could be depression.
Once again, always start by consulting a doctor to rule out physical issues. If your child has frequent headaches or stomachaches with no apparent physical cause, watch for other signs of depression.
When to talk to a doctor?
Occasional sadness or angst isn’t depression. But if your child shows several of these signs for more than two weeks, reach out to a doctor or mental health professional. Watch for symptoms that interfere with school, friendships, or your child’s usual behaviour.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can children experience depression?
Depression doesn’t just affect adults. Children can develop depression, too. However, some symptoms may vary from those experienced by adults.
What should I do if I notice these warning signs?
If you notice any of these signs, start by talking to your child. Then, meet with your child’s paediatrician or another mental-health professional. They can help you get to the root of the problem.
My child says they want to hurt themselves or kill themselves. What should I do?
Even if you think your child is just seeking attention, take them seriously. Suicidal thoughts are common in depressed teens and children. So, if your child talks about suicide or hurting themselves, seek help right away.
Depression isn’t always sadness. It can show up as anger or irritability. Falling grades, sleeping too much or too little, avoiding friends, or frequently complaining about headaches and stomachaches are other possibilities.
That’s why some parents write off warning signs as hormonal changes or growing pains. Nearly one in seven (14%) 10–19-year-olds worldwide suffer from a mental disorder, and UNICEF says childhood depression is on the rise. Depression and anxiety are among the top causes of illness and disability among teens.
So, how can parents in India spot the signs of depression? Here are five things to look out for.
1. Irritability or Anger
A happy kid suddenly getting inexplicably angry or upset could be displaying signs of depression. Many kids are moody sometimes. But if your child seems constantly irritable, it could be cause for concern — especially if they’re older.
Some depressed teenagers don’t say, “Hey, I’m feeling down.” They might just fly off the handle or pull away emotionally.
2. Withdrawal From Activities They Enjoyed
Losing interest in activities your child loves is another key sign.
Does your child love cricket, dancing, playing video games, drawing, singing, or spending time with friends? Suddenly being unwilling to do these things can indicate depression. Withdrawal from activities kids used to enjoy is a classic sign of depression.
3. Sleeping or Eating Too Much or Too Little
Depression can cause some kids to sleep far more than usual. They might struggle to sleep at night but crash during the day. Or they might always seem tired. Other kids lose their appetite and eat very little. Some overeat.
Again, every child is different. But if your kid suddenly starts sleeping a lot more (or less) or drastically changes their eating habits and this change doesn’t go away, take note.
4. Grades suddenly drop or they don’t want to go to school anymore
Children who suddenly don’t want to go to school, stop completing homework, or can’t concentrate in class may be depressed. Don’t assume they’re just lazy or acting out.
A child who loved school suddenly becoming listless can be due to depression. As with other signs on this list, look for a change from their typical behaviour. And if they suddenly start getting bad grades, look closer to see if it could be depression.
5. Complaints About Stomachaches and Headaches
Headaches and stomachaches can be symptoms of depression, especially in young children who can’t always express themselves verbally. If your child frequently complains of feeling sick but you can’t find a cause, it could be depression.
Once again, always start by consulting a doctor to rule out physical issues. If your child has frequent headaches or stomachaches with no apparent physical cause, watch for other signs of depression.
When to talk to a doctor?
Occasional sadness or angst isn’t depression. But if your child shows several of these signs for more than two weeks, reach out to a doctor or mental health professional. Watch for symptoms that interfere with school, friendships, or your child’s usual behaviour.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can children experience depression?
Depression doesn’t just affect adults. Children can develop depression, too. However, some symptoms may vary from those experienced by adults.
What should I do if I notice these warning signs?
If you notice any of these signs, start by talking to your child. Then, meet with your child’s paediatrician or another mental-health professional. They can help you get to the root of the problem.
My child says they want to hurt themselves or kill themselves. What should I do?
Even if you think your child is just seeking attention, take them seriously. Suicidal thoughts are common in depressed teens and children. So, if your child talks about suicide or hurting themselves, seek help right away.
