Up to 15% of children and adolescents have symptoms of depression at any given time, and 5% meet the criteria for major depressive disorder. Depression can be caused by hormonal changes or a chemical imbalance in the brain. It may have a genetic component, running in families for generations. It commonly occurs when triggered by stressful life events, such as a major loss or change. Losing someone to death or separation, changing schools, divorce, physical or emotional abuse, bullying, rejection, and illness are common triggers to depression and its symptoms.
Depression has a negative impact on a child’s development, school performance, and relationships. Children and adolescents with depression feel sad or hopeless. They might be easily irritated or angry. They lose interest and enthusiasm for things they once enjoyed. They may feel bad about themselves and lose their confidence. Some complain of stomach aches, headaches, or some other physical discomforts. Sometimes there are changes in their eating habits or sleeping patterns. Hopeless and suicidal thoughts can also afflict them. Major depressive disorder is the leading cause of suicide among youth. Depression in children and teens can be destructive or fatal. Untreated, it can lead to unhealthy and dysfunctional patterns of coping such as withdrawal, isolation, bullying, delinquency, drug use, promiscuity, self-injury, or self-destruction.
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