In today’s time, with technology and social media, the level of human interaction is decreasing. Even in a parent-child relationship, the communication between the parent and the child has fizzled out. According to a survey, children as young as a 6-year-old child can also show symptoms of depression. But, parents mostly dismiss them by putting it as a normal emotional behaviour in the child. Thus, by this statement the child’s depression often gets un-noticed. How to Identifying Depression?
Thus, below are few identifying symptoms of depression in children:
Low Mood and Unhappiness:
The child will most of the time present a very low mood. They will constantly feel down and unhappy.
Crying:
Showing your emotions is not a bad thing. But, when the child is always crying or tearful then it becomes an indicating symptom.
Irritable:
The child starts getting irritated at small things. Sometimes, they show irritable behaviour even when someone is trying to console them.
Low Energy:
Most of the times, the child will not be willing to indulge in any activity. Thus, showing lack, low energy.
Socially Isolated:
The child will start isolating himself/herself from others. They start preferring to stay alone and not indulge themselves in any activity. Thus, they will start to lose interest in activities they used to enjoy or like.
Lack of Sleep and Appetite:
Due to overthinking and worry they can’t sleep. Also, their appetite goes down or up too much.
Difficulty in Focusing and Concentrating:
A lot of times, they are unable to focus or concentrate on a single thing. Thus, hampering their decision-making capabilities. Their focus keeps on wandering and they start to reminiscence about their past and start thinking what went wrong.
Psychosomatic Pain:
As children are unable to express their feelings, their body starts showing symptoms of their feelings. Usually, the child will constantly have head or stomach aches without any medical reason.
Feelings of Guilt and Worthlessness:
The child will start blaming themselves for everything. Thus, it will make them feel that they are worthless and have an immense feeling of guilt. Hence, hampering their self-esteem.
Thoughts of Self-Harm:
Lastly, some of the children also show thoughts of self-harm and suicide. They will constantly feel worthless and think about ending their life.
If your child, or any child you know show these symptoms of depression, then it is advisable to visit a psychologist immediately.
