This guide will help you answer 3.4. Describe how to recognise signs that a child or young person could be depressed.
Depression in children and young people is a growing concern in today’s world. Recognising the signs early can make a significant difference in their mental health support and management. As an Early Years Practitioner or child care it’s essential to be knowledgeable about the symptoms and behaviours that suggest a child may be experiencing depression.
What is Depression?
Depression is a mental health disorder characterised by persistently low mood and a loss of interest in activities. It can also involve a range of physical and emotional issues. Depression affects how a child or young person feels, thinks, and behaves, and it can greatly impact their daily functioning.
Recognising Emotional Signs
Emotional signs of depression can manifest in various ways. It’s crucial to pay attention to these, especially if they persist for more than two weeks.
- Sadness or Irritability: This might seem obvious, but notable increases in sadness or irritability indicate that something could be wrong. Watch for children who are unusually tearful or frequently upset without apparent causes.
- Loss of Interest: Children who suddenly lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed may be experiencing depression. They might withdraw from friends, stop participating in clubs, or show a loss of enthusiasm for hobbies they once loved.
- Hopelessness and Helplessness: Statements expressing feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, such as “I’m no good” or “Nothing will ever get better,” should raise concerns.
- Excessive Guilt: A child who continually blames themselves for issues either within the family or school setting might be dealing with depressive thoughts.
Recognising Physical Signs
Depression doesn’t only affect the mind; it can have physical symptoms too. These include:
- Changes in Sleep Patterns: Difficulty sleeping, nightmares, or oversleeping are common.
- Appetite Changes: Look for significant weight loss or gain without dieting. Children may either overeat or lose interest in food.
- Fatigue and Low Energy: Persistent tiredness or a marked decrease in energy levels can indicate depression. The child might seem lethargic or uninterested in physical activities they used to enjoy.
- Unexplained Physical Complaints: Complaints of headaches, stomach pains, or other illnesses that cannot be explained by medical professionals may be a sign of depression.
Recognising Behavioural Signs
Behavioural changes are often evident in children suffering from depression.
- Social Withdrawal: Isolation from friends and family members is a red flag. Children might stop attending social functions or avoid interaction with peers.
- Decline in Academic Performance: Sudden drops in grades or a lack of interest in schoolwork could signal underlying emotional distress.
- Risky Behaviours: Older children and teenagers might engage in risky or self-destructive behaviours, such as substance abuse or reckless activities.
- Aggression or Agitation: Increased irritability or anger outbursts can be signs of underlying depression. Children might become more argumentative or display tantrums more frequently.
- Self-Harm or Talk of Suicide: This is a serious sign that requires immediate attention. Any mention of self-harm, or thoughts of suicide, should be treated with utmost urgency and professional help should be sought immediately.
Recognising Cognitive Changes
Depression can also affect a child’s cognitive functions:
- Concentration Problems: Difficulty focusing on tasks, daydreaming, or appearing disinterested during conversations are signs to look out for.
- Indecisiveness: Children might struggle with making decisions, even about small matters.
- Negative Thinking: Persistent negative thoughts, whether about themselves or the world around them, could indicate depressive thinking patterns.
Contextual Factors
Understanding the context of a child’s life can help in recognising signs of depression:
- Family Environment: Stressful home environments, such as those involving conflict, divorce, or financial difficulties, can contribute to depression.
- Peer Relationships: Issues such as bullying, peer pressure, or social exclusion can be significant stressors.
- Life Events: Traumatic events, such as the loss of a loved one, moving to a new area, or changes in schools, can trigger depressive episodes.
Professional Observation
In an Early Years setting, practitioners should consistently observe and document children’s behaviours and moods. Keeping records can help track patterns and identify persistent issues.
- Regular Check-ins: Casual, regular conversations with children can provide insights into their mental state. Encourage open dialogue about their feelings and experiences.
- Parental Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with parents or guardians. They can offer additional perspectives on their child’s behaviour and any changes they’ve noticed at home.
- Collaboration with Colleagues: Discuss observations with colleagues. They might have noticed different or additional signs that confirm suspicions of depression.
Supporting Depressed Children
Recognising the signs is the first step. Following this, children should be supported in a compassionate and structured way.
- Referral to Specialists: If depression is suspected, refer the child to a mental health specialist for assessment and intervention.
- Creating a Supportive Environment: Provide a caring and non-judgemental environment. Encourage social interaction and involvement in activities.
- Education: Educate yourself and others about depression. Understanding the condition can improve the quality of support provided to the child or young person.
Conclusion
Early recognition of depression in children and young people is crucial. By being vigilant and knowledgeable about the signs, child care workers can play a significant role in the early identification and support of those struggling with depression. Always act with compassion, and refer to professional help when necessary. Your role can make a profound difference in a young person’s life.
