How Depression Impacts Learning for Elementary Aged Children

Depression interferes with all aspects of functioning for children who are experiencing the symptoms. In fact, a diagnosis of depression is dependent on how significant the levels of functioning are affected. School performance in elementary aged children is negatively impacted by depression.

Mood Disturbance

• Children who are affected by depression will experience chronic feelings of sadness. This may affect the ability to form efficacy in social relationships with peers and teachers. The child may appear withdrawn and the mood problem may be perceived as disinterest in the classroom.

Energy Level

• Depression affects energy levels. Children affected by depression may have difficulties sustaining the energy needed to maintain performance throughout the day at school.

Concentration

• Depression impacts the ability to concentrate. Children affected by depression will have more difficulties maintaining focus on classwork and/or homework. Listening in class and following directions may be negatively impacted by depression.

Loss of Pleasure

• Children affected by depression may not experience pleasure associated with positive school performance. The rewards of teachers may not be well received by a depressed child and may inhibit quality of work.

Low Self-Esteem

• Children affected by depression will typically have low self-esteem despite actual performance level. Depressed children may not display the confidence that is often expected from teachers for success.