Childhood Depression: Causes and Symptoms

Childhood depression is a condition marked by persistent sadness. It causes the child to feel lonely, hopeless, helpless and worthless. If this type of a sadness persists, it can disrupt his/her childhood and may have lasting effects even into adulthood. If neglected, childhood depression can lead to suicide.

What are the causes?
The exact cause of childhood depression is not known but a combination of other factors can lead to such. Some of them are:

1. Physical health
2. Family and external environment
3. Mental health
4. Genetic vulnerability and
5. Biochemical disturbance

Children who suffer from such depression can behave and misbehave erratically. Yet, some children may continue to behave reasonably well in structured environments. Some young children may impulsively attempt suicide due to anger and frustration. Studies show that girls are more likely to commit suicide than boys.

What are the symptoms?

Children who suffer from such depression exhibit certain symptoms. Some of them are:

1. Increased or decreased appetite
2. Changes in sleeping patterns
3. Difficulty in concentration
4. Fatigue
5. Sadness and hopelessness
6. Vocal outbursts
7. Disobedience
8. Irritability and anger
9. Increased sensitivity to rejection
10. Suicidal thoughts

Some children start to use drugs or pick up detrimental habits like smoking and drinking to evade their depression. Children with a family history of physical or sexual abuse are at a greater risk of experiencing depression. Consulting a therapist or a counselor in this case is duly advised. 

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