Spotting the early signs of depression in children

Depression has grown to become a pressing concern in this time and age especially due to an ever-present digitised network encompassing the globe. Depression is more damaging than you can fathom and should not be left untreated – particularly in case of children. There have been many instances where depression has not been recognised as the main cause of concern in children. This is due to the fact that a healthy number of individuals are unable to recognise the signs of depression. When one observes altered behaviour and emotions that hint of depression, one must address it effectively and immediately.

Here are some signs that one should watch out for

Withdrawal issues 

Social withdrawal is the most common tell-tale sign of individuals undergoing depression. Constant withdrawals from social gatherings and events are a clear indicator of unwillingness to involve themselves and participate in activities.  Social isolation typically worsens the illness and precautions must be taken to ensure that the child is sufficiently exposed to a host of social activities.

Attention-seeking behaviour 

Children who are depressed are likely to act in a manner to garner attention for their actions. Be it exhibiting bad behaviour in a classroom or creating trouble at school and home, they may demonstrate the attention seeking behaviour to reflect their current state of mind or emotion. It is best to ignore the misbehaviour, and place your focus on the child.

Academic issues 

A dip in the student’s academic performance may result in a plunge in their self-esteem. This emotional instability can affect their academics and may affect their ability to make the right choices. The best solution to this problem is to talk to the child regarding their poor academic performance and help guide him successfully.

Skipping meals 

When a child is struggling with depression, their eating habits often suffer. Some overeat and gain weight, turning to food to lift their mood while some may lose. Skipping meals or inaccurately consuming meals leads to a further state of depression, loss in mood and excessive fatigue. Having constant food intake at proper times ensures that the body is receiving the necessary enrichment that it needs to power through everyday activities.

Language in schoolwork

It may come as a surprise that the vocabulary a child uses in his school can often be indicative of his unrest and depressed state of mind. Essays, stories and compositions may be lined with feelings of doubt, uncertainty, loneliness or anger, to name a few. It is essential to read between the lines and discover if the child is suffering from depression based on his writing.  If you have observed any of these signs, it is imperative to delve deeper to understand the root cause of depression. However, if the child is socially withdrawn and shy, he may not seek help easily. Every educational institute must endeavour to provide the child with the best possible environment to allow him to effectively communicate his grievance and problems.

With the recent Blue Whale Challenge and the 13 Reasons Why series, children suffering from depression in particular are further influenced, heightening suicidal tendencies. All of this accentuates the need for parents at home and teachers at school to be watchful.