Low Mood and Depression

Understanding Depression and Low Mood in Children: A Guide for Parents

Children experience a full spectrum of emotions as they grow, and periods of sadness are natural. However, sometimes these feelings persist and may indicate depression. Many parents have a strong instinct when their child isn’t feeling like themselves, though it can be tough to know how best to help. If you’re seeing changes in your child, it’s essential to recognize that they may not always express sadness or low mood in the same way adults do, especially younger children. Instead, you might notice shifts in behaviour or mood.

Common Symptoms of Depression in Children

Children show signs of depression differently depending on their age, but some common indicators include:

• Regressive behaviors (acting younger than their age, e.g., clinginess or thumb-sucking)
• Frequent tearfulness or becoming upset easily
• Sleep disturbances (difficulty falling or staying asleep, or sleeping excessively)
• Physical symptoms like tummy aches or headaches without a clear cause
• Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
• Changes in appetite (loss of interest in eating or noticeable changes in eating habits)
• Social withdrawal (avoiding friends or family interactions)
• Talk of feeling hopeless or life not being worth living
• Difficulty concentrating or struggling to keep up with learning

How Common is Depression in Children?

According to the Royal College of Psychiatry, around 1-3% of children and young people may experience depression. Depression can affect anyone—regardless of age, race, or background. It’s worth noting that teenage girls are approximately twice as likely as boys to experience depression.

What Causes Depression in Children?

Depression doesn’t have one clear cause and is often due to a combination of factors:

• Stressful life events such as bullying, family changes (like separation or divorce), or loss of a loved one
• Family history of mood disorders, which can increase susceptibility
• Interpersonal conflicts or feelings of isolation from friends or family

How You Can Support Your Child

If you feel something isn’t right, trust your instincts. Here are some ways to support a child who may be experiencing low mood or depression:

• Stay Calm and Open: Try to keep a calm environment and avoid showing frustration, even if they seem withdrawn or irritable.
• Spend Quality Time Together: Sit with them, even in their room, without any pressure to talk. Just being present can make a difference.
• Encourage Routine: Encourage your child to join family mealtimes or participate in shared activities. Routines provide a sense of structure and normalcy.
• Connect with Their School: Don’t hesitate to reach out to teachers or counselors at school to understand more about how they’re doing socially and academically.

When to Seek Professional Help

If these feelings persist, consider speaking with a professional:

• Counselling and Therapy: Talking therapies, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), are often effective, particularly for older children. Younger children may benefit from play-based such as SandPlay therapy or family-focused therapies.

• Medication: In certain cases, a psychiatrist may prescribe medication to help manage symptoms, especially if symptoms are severe.

Additional Resources and Support

If you need support, contact your GP, school nurse, or ask about school counseling options. Some local organizations, such as Off the Record (OTR) in Bristol, offer free therapy for young people, while CAMHS provides specialized mental health services. Or contact me for a consultation.