Parents watch out for early signs of Depression.

I thought it would be relevant to mention that parents must be alert for any changes in their children’s behavior. Keep in mind that while depression is a serious illness, it is also a treatable one.

Is my child Depressed?

The symptoms in children vary and is often undiagnosed and untreated because they are brushed off as normal emotional and psychological changes that occur during growth. Many children display sadness or low mood similar to adults who are depressed. The most common symptoms of depression revolve around sadness, a feeling of hopelessness, and mood changes:

• Irritability or anger.
• Continuous feelings of sadness, hopelessness.
• Social withdrawal.
• Increased sensitivity to rejection.
• Changes in appetite -- either increased or decreased.
• Changes in sleep-- sleeplessness or excessive sleep.
• Vocal outbursts or crying.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Fatigue and low energy.
• Physical complaints (such as stomachaches, headaches) that do not respond to treatment
• Reduced ability to function during events and activities at home or with friends, in school, extracurricular activities, and in other hobbies or interests.
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt.
• Impaired thinking or concentration.
• Thoughts of death or suicide.

Young children do attempt suicide and may do so impulsively when they are upset or angry. Children with a family history of violence, alcohol abuse, or physical or sexual abuse are at greater risk for suicide, as are those with depressive symptoms.

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen".