Depression in children is almost always reactive- i.e. in response to stressful life events. Often supportive nurturing care will be enough to resolve it, but when it isn’t , psychiatric assessment can be useful. I often see young people who have been exposed to long term stress such as bullying or family disturbances. I also see young people for whom there is no obvious trigger or cause, and we treat it as a biological illness. It is always important to consider whether there are physical health causes and I would encourage a full physical health check including bloods prior to seeing me. I will always consider whether there are neurodevelopmental differences.
Symptoms include:
- Tearfulness
- Withdrawal
- Loss of interest in activities
- Self-harm
- Changes in sleep
- Changes in appetite
Treatment can include:
- Therapy- tailored to the young persons needs and ability to engage
- Medication
- Nutritional and lifestyle advice
- School liaison