Understand more about depression in children and young people, and find out how we can help.
Children and young people can go through many emotional ups and downs as they manage the struggles of growing up, but some can develop symptoms of depression. Depression is more than just feelings of sadness, but is mental health condition that, with the right support and treatment, can be effectively managed.
Signs and symptoms of depression
A child or young person will show marked changes in their usual functioning, for example not being able to perform usual routines and everyday tasks alongside one or more symptoms of depression.
Symptoms of depression in young people include:
Low mood
Lack of appetite
Social withdrawal
Low self-esteem
Complaining of feeling lonely
Talk of suicide or death
Poor sleep
Low energy
Regular sadness
Dramatic mood swings, particularly expressing anger or frustration
Apathy towards favourite items
Regressing to a younger age