Child Depression

Is your child persistently sad, moody or irritable?
Does your child have a “victim mentality” and a negative view of the world?
Is your child easily frustrated, agitated and/or quick to give up?
Does your child have low self-esteem, struggle in peer relationships or have difficulty overcoming setbacks?
Do you wish you knew how to motivate your child and help him or her see things more positively?

Trying to help your child maintain a positive attitude and/or participate in activities enjoyed by other children his or her age can be a frustrating experience. Your attempts to motivate your child and to help him or her see things positively may be met with resistance and may even lead to power struggles. It can be challenging to help your child handle disappointments and stress and to work through problems, especially if he or she takes feedback as a personal attack. It’s common for parents in situations like these to wonder if their child is going through a phase or if symptoms, such as persistent crying, irritability, change in sleep and/or eating patterns and low motivation, may be indicative that something deeper, such as depression, is taking place.

Does your child need depression counseling?

Just like adults, children get down from time to time. Issues such as rejection from peers, challenges at school, or fights with siblings can cause irritability and even brief withdrawal from friends and family. However, if your child is not bouncing back from challenges within a reasonable amount of time, you may have cause for concern. While childhood depression can be difficult for parents to determine, if your child is suffering from the following symptoms for two full weeks or more, a child psychologist can provide you with insight and relief. We encourage you to schedule a consultation if your child is experiencing any of the following symptoms:

No longer participating in activities that he or she used to enjoy
Frequently sad and/or irritable
Very low self-esteem
Noticeable changes in eating and/or sleeping patterns
Persistent pessimistic thoughts
Unrealistic, negative view of him or herself.

Therapy can offer guidance, support and relief.

At Cartersville Counseling & Therapy, we can also help you to better understand your child’s emotional experience, and provide you with tools you can use at home to help your child develop a more empowering view of his or her place in the world. You can learn how to help your child respond to situations more effectively, develop positive motivational strategies, and learn ways to create and maintain healthy friendships. We can also provide you with support as you and your child work through challenging emotions and situations.

Child depression is one of the most common and effectively treated disorders. There are many proven methods than can provide relief, mitigate symptoms and promote harmony. With help, your child can feel and function better, and you can develop tools to help your child feel supported and successful now and throughout his or her childhood and adolescence.

But, you still may have questions or concerns…

I’m afraid that a depression diagnosis could mean medication for the rest of my child’s life.

Medication is just one tool in the toolbox that can be used to treat depression in children. There are many other approaches we can try first. However, if non-medication approaches are not working, there may be a biological reason for your child’s depression. If your therapist believes that medication should be considered, we will work with your psychiatrist to help you determine a treatment plan that works with your child’s age and stage. It is possible that medication could be a temporary solution for your child. Medication can mitigate symptoms, helping your child to actively participate in school, family and peer relationships, as well as counseling. For many children, once core issues are addressed and a foundation for academic, social, and emotional success is built, medication can be gradually discontinued. For other children, a medication maintenance plan will be recommended.

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