How to Diagnose Depression in Children

Depression can strike anyone at anytime and even children are not immune from the emotional disorder. Although occasional sadness may be a part of a normal childhood, if a child experiences chronic unhappiness and exhibits other signs of depression over a period of one month or longer, he may suffer from clinical depression. Personal observation and a professional assessment are necessary when diagnosing depression in a child.

Instructions

• 1

  Observe the child's interaction with his peers. Children who suffer from depression may withdraw from social activities. In addition, they may want to spend the majority of their time by themselves and may turn down invitations from friends to attend social functions.

• 2

  Monitor a child's energy and physical activity levels. When a child becomes depressed, his desire to take part in extracurricular sports or games may suffer. The child may show no interest in physical activities that he once enjoyed.

• 3

  Pay attention to a child's achievement in school. When depression strikes, the child may find it difficult to concentrate even for short periods on his studies, and his grades may reflect his lack of focus. He may see no value in learning during this time.

• 4

  Ask a child to elaborate upon his feelings if you're concerned that he may be suffering from depression. Listen in a non-judgmental manner, and don't try to dismiss his feelings as not important. A depressed child may mention feelings of worthlessness, sadness or guilt or he may have suicidal thoughts.

• 5

  Make a note of physical complaints that seem to have no visible cause. Depression hurts, and it can manifest into real aches and pains. Headaches, stomachaches and a loss of appetite are common during a bout of depression. The child isn't faking; he really is experiencing the symptoms.

• 6

  Watch a child's reaction to daily situations. When a child is depressed, he may lash out verbally or physically at small annoyances. He may become easily irritated and resort to quick outbursts. He may also display overly sensitive reactions to perceived insults or slights.

• 7

  Schedule an appointment with the child's family doctor to rule out an underlying medical condition. According to MayoClinic.net, early detection is vital to the successful treatment of childhood depression. The child's primary care physician can recommend a mental health professional if he suspects the child is depressed.