Childhood depression

   

Depression is a state of low mood and aversion to activity. 

Often it is caused by a mixture of things.  For example,your child may have inherited a tendency to depression and also have experienced some difficult life events such as bullying in the school or sexual abuse or separation of parents,

What are the symptoms?

Irritability (not sadness)
Aggression
Aches and pains
Lethargy 
Not spending time in play                                 
Disturbed sleep and appetite
Feeling of being not loved
Bed wetting


Consequences:

Drug abuse
obesity
run away
Loneliness
Risk of heart attack in adulthood


The problem remains undiagnosed, and untreated, because the parents are not aware

If you think your child is depressed

It's important to talk to them. Try to find out what's troubling them and how they are feeling. Take it seriously. It could be a major problem.
The word depression carries a 'stigma' and it is very hard for the parents to accept the diagnosis.They need to take action and take the child to a psychiatrist.