Child & Youth Depression: Understanding, Signs, and Treatment Options
Depression is often thought of as something that only affects adults, but children and youth are not immune to its impact. Just like adults, they can experience overwhelming feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair. However, unlike adults, young people may find it difficult to express their emotions due to their developmental stage. As a result, depression in children and teens may look different and can sometimes be harder to identify.
In teenagers, the pressures of school, relationships with peers and family, self-imposed high standards, and extracurricular commitments can contribute to stress and coping difficulties, which may eventually lead to depression. Additionally, traumatic experiences, such as the loss of a loved one, emotional or physical abuse, or witnessing violence, can leave lasting emotional scars that contribute to depressive symptoms. Recognizing the signs early on can help you support your child in getting the help they need to overcome depression and improve their well-being.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression in Children and Youth
While depression can manifest differently in each child or teenager, there are common emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms to look out for:
Emotional Symptoms
- Feelings of overwhelming sadness or despair
- Low self-esteem and frequent self-criticism
- Frequent crying or emotional outbursts
- Regression to a younger or more infantile state
- Difficulty concentrating, especially in school
- Problems with anger, irritability, or emotional instability
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Behavioral and Physical Symptoms
- Noticeable changes in school performance or activities
- Damaging behavior (self-harm, aggression, or property damage)
- Avoiding previously enjoyed activities
- Changes in appetite (either overeating or loss of appetite)
- Frequent headaches, stomachaches, or unexplained physical ailments
- Sleep disturbances (difficulty falling asleep, oversleeping, or insomnia)
- Feeling fatigued or low energy
When to Seek Help
If you notice that your child is showing signs of depression, particularly when these behaviors affect their daily life, it's important to take action. This could include a sudden drop in academic performance, behavioral changes, or increased withdrawal from social situations. If your child expresses feelings of hopelessness or avoids activities they once enjoyed, or if they mention thoughts of self-harm or suicide, seeking professional support is essential. Early intervention can help address the underlying causes of depression and provide your child with the tools they need to heal.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, immediate help is available. You can contact local distress lines, or reach out to a professional therapist for support. In Alberta, for immediate assistance outside of office hours, call 211 or one of the following:
- Edmonton: Crisis Centre at 780-482-HELP (4357)
- Greater Edmonton Region: Rural Distress Line at 1-800-232-7288
- Calgary: 403-266-HELP (4357)
Treatment Options for Child and Youth Depression
There are various treatment methods available for children and teens experiencing depression. The most appropriate approach will depend on the child’s age, the severity of their symptoms, and their unique needs. Here are some common therapeutic options:
1. Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, or "talk therapy," is often used to help children and teens process their emotions and address underlying psychological issues. This therapeutic approach may involve conversations that help individuals understand their thoughts and emotions, allowing them to find new ways to cope with challenges.
2. Play Therapy
For younger children, play therapy is an effective treatment that allows children to express their feelings through play. Using toys, art, or role-playing, children can communicate their thoughts and emotions in a way that is natural and comfortable for them.
3. Family Systems Therapy
In some cases, the dynamics within a family may contribute to a child’s depression. Family systems therapy focuses on improving communication and relationships within the family, helping family members support each other and work through emotional challenges together.
4. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
EMDR is a proven therapeutic approach that helps children and teens process traumatic memories and negative emotions. It uses bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements) to help the brain reprocess distressing memories, promoting healing from trauma.
5. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a widely used, evidence-based therapy that helps individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns that may contribute to depression. By learning how to reframe thoughts, children and teens can develop healthier perspectives and coping strategies.
6. Art Therapy
Art therapy allows children to express their emotions through creative outlets such as drawing, painting, or sculpture. This can be especially helpful for children who struggle to articulate their feelings verbally, offering a safe and non-judgmental space for emotional exploration.
7. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT helps children and teens accept difficult emotions without letting them control their lives. Through mindfulness and acceptance strategies, clients learn to focus on the present moment, letting go of negative thoughts and moving forward with greater emotional resilience.
Why Choose Wholesome Psychology for Child & Youth Depression?
If you or your child is struggling with depression, there is hope. At Wholesome Psychology, we believe in a personalized, compassionate approach to therapy. Our team of certified, experienced therapists in Canada is dedicated to helping children, teens, and families navigate the challenges of depression and trauma. By combining empathy with practical solutions, we empower young people to heal and grow in a safe, supportive environment.
If you're unsure where to start, we offer a “First Session 50% OFF” as a way for you and your child to find the right therapist for their unique needs. We're here to listen, understand, and support you every step of the way.
If you're ready to take the next step, contact us today to schedule an appointment. We're here to help your child find hope and healing on their journey.