w Child and adolescent depression does exist
w Depression in children and adolescents is frequently not recognized, thus most kids never get help
w Untreated depression can damage the social, academic and psychological maturation of children
w Common co-occurring disorders include substance abuse, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), Conduct and Anxiety Disorders
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
q MOOD: Irritable, easily annoyed, hypersensitive, negative lonely, sad, unhappy, hopeless, pessimistic
q TENSION/AGITATION: Hostile, agitated, sudden bursts of anger, disrespectful, belligerent, quarrels and/or gets into fights
q PHYSICAL HEALTH: Headaches, general aches and pains, stomach aches, weight changes, appetite changes
q SLEEP/ENERGY LEVEL: Trouble falling or staying asleep, early morning awakenings, fatigue, difficulty getting up in the morning, excessive sleeping, decreased energy, loss of interests
q SELF VIEW: Unloved, ugly, useless, worthless, stupid, incompetent, guilty, persecuted, has death wishes, suicidal thoughts and/or suicide attempts
q SOCIAL LIFE: Withdrawn, less friendly, wants to be left alone, no longer enjoys friends or activities, bored and disinterested
q ACADEMICS: Drop in grades, poor concentration, daydreams in class, struggles with homework, morbid themes in written work, difficulty making decisions
THE GOOD NEWS!
l Children can develop a solid foundation of health knowledge and skills…if early education in prevention and wellness building is available
l Depression in children and adolescents can be prevented…If children, their teachers and parents are knowledgeable about the warning signs
l Depression in children and adolescents can be successfully treated…If adults in their lives know when, where, and how to find effective treatment
Resources
CT Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services 860-418-670
Center for Mental Health Services 800-789-2647
National Institute of Mental Health
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