How to Help Young Children With Depression

Depression does not only affect adults and adolescents, it can also affect young children. Elementary school and even preschool age children can suffer from depression. Although all young children may have occasional feelings of sadness, suffering from depression is more serious. The causes of depression in children vary, but can include, a chaotic family situation or a parent's divorce. Some children may also develop depression after the death of a parent or sibling. Although the Federal Drug Administration has approved certain anti-depressant medications for children over the age of eight, there are other ways to address the condition.

Instructions

• 1

  Recognize signs. Young children may have signs of depression which are similar to adults, but may not express their feelings. Frequent crying, loss of interest in playing and changes in sleep may be signs of depression. Children may also become very clingy and have trouble separating from a parent. Children who are potty trained may start wetting the bed or having daytime accidents. Depressed children may also complain of physical problems, such as a headache or stomach ache.

• 2

  Get help from the experts. Talk to your pediatrician who may recommend changes to improve your child's physical health, such as changes in diet. Discuss how much sleep your child should get based on her age. Your pediatrician may recommend a child psychologist. The psychologist can assess your child and help determine if she appears to have depression. A psychologist may recommend counseling to help treat the depression.

• 3

  Consider play therapy. Very young children may not completely be able to say what they feel. Through play therapy, the children may be able to express their thoughts and learn coping strategies. Ask your pediatrician or child psychologist about the need for play therapy.

• 4

  Find extra time to spend with your child. When a young child is suffering from depression he needs to feel safe and loved by his parents or guardian. Do your best to arrange your schedule to spend added time with your child. Do fun activities together, such as doing art projects, reading books and playing outside.

• 5

  Listen to your child. Some young children may be able to talk about their feelings. Ask your child how he feels and let him know how much you love him. Be reassuring with hugs and words of support. Let your child know that you will always be there to help.