Signs of Depression in Children

Although depression is more common in adolescents and adults, it also affects children. New studies and research show that signs and symptoms of depression can affect children as young as preschoolers. A clinical assessment can help determine whether or not a child is experiencing clinical depression symptoms. Warning signs of depression in children to look out for include:

• Difficulty Concentrating
  Depression can impair a child’s ability to concentrate and make decisions, leading to academic or behavioral problems at school or home. Impaired decision-making can also lead to anger problems and increased irritability. 
  
• Social Withdrawal
  Avoiding friends and family can be a common sign of depression in children. A lot of the time, children with depressive symptoms prefer to spend time alone in their rooms instead of socializing with others. We offer support services to help children as young as five years old improve their mental health and address depression. 
  
• Sleep Disturbances
  Sudden changes in sleeping patterns is a common sign of depression or other mental health condition in young children. Depressed children may have difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping excessively. Our counseling therapy in North Carolina can help children address behavioral problems causing sleep issues and mental health problems like depression. 

We offer services to help improve mental health in Durham, North Carolina, for children and adults. For more information about our services and how we can help you, call Carolina Community Support Services, Inc. at 919-673-1684.