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recognizing childhood depression

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Childhood depression is a serious illness with serious consequences. Left untreated, depression can lead to school failure, substance abuse and even suicide. Are you aware of the warning signs of child or teen depression?

Each day, at least one child in every elementary classroom across America may suffer from depression. And several teenagers sitting in every junior high and high school classroom may also have depression. Yet most parents and teachers never realize these children are silently suffering.

Warning signs for depression in children and teens

Because the child may not always seem sad, parents and teachers may not realize that troublesome behavior is a sign of depression. Child psychiatrists advise parents to be aware of the signs of depression in children and teens. If one or more of the warning signs below persists for more than two weeks, parents should seek professional help:

• Persistent sadness and hopelessness
• Withdrawal from friends and activities once enjoyed
• Increased irritability or agitation
• Missed school or declining school performance
• Changes in eating and sleeping habits
• Indecision, lack of concentration or forgetfulness
• Poor self-esteem or guilt
• Frequent physical complaints such as headaches and stomachaches
• Lack of enthusiasm or motivation or low energy
• Drug and/or alcohol abuse-- Recurring thoughts of death or suicide

* Source: National Mental Health Association

Additional warning signs for teens

Additionally, teens may experiment with drugs or alcohol or become sexually promiscuous to avoid feelings of depression. Teens also may express their depression through hostile, aggressive, or risk-taking behavior.