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Childhood Depression is Real, Common and Treatable.
Failing to Provide Appropriate Mental Health Services Puts Kids at Risk

“Depression is more than just ‘feeling blue’ or having a bad day. And it’s different from feelings of grief or sorrow that follow a major loss, such as a death in the family. It’s not a personal weakness or a character flaw. Children and teens with clinical depression cannot simply ‘snap out of it.’

Depression is a serious health problem that affects feelings, thoughts and actions, and can appear as a physical illness. As many as one in eight teens and one in 33 children have clinical depression. Fortunately, depression in youth is treatable.”

-- National Mental Health Association Childhood Depression Awareness Day Toolkit, 2006

Consequences of untreated depression can include social isolation, difficulties at home and school, and an increased risk of suicide. The symptoms of depression may look different in youth than in adults, and as a result, are often overlooked or misunderstood.

Warning signs of depression in a child or adolescent include:

• Sad, hopeless or irritable feelings
• Falling behind in school or earning lower grades
• Losing interest in friends or activities usually enjoyed
• Avoiding people; wanting to be alone all of the time
• Talking about suicide or death
• Hurting other people or animals; damaging property
• Major changes in eating or sleeping habits

Once a child experiences an episode of depression, he or she is at risk of having another episode within the next five years. Promoting mental health awareness and knowing the warning signs of mental health problems are essential to improving and saving young people who may be risk for depression and other mental illnesses.

Read more about Child and Adolescent Mental Health Problems/Diagnoses on this site. For more information and help, please call our Information and Referral Service at 914-345-5900, extension 240 or e-mail us at help@mhawestchester.org.

For help in finding a professional skilled in treating mental health problems, consult our guide to finding the right therapist for you or your loved one, or contact our Information and Referral Service at 914-345-5900, extension 240, or e-mail us at help@mhawestchester.org.

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