Page 13 - Seniorstoday August-2023 Issue
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Kids going through depression may Fixation on past failures or exaggerated
complain a lot. They may say self-critical self-blame or self-criticism
things like, “I don’t have any friends.” “I Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure,
can’t do this.” “It’s too hard for me.” and the need for excessive reassurance
Depression can drain a child’s energy, Trouble thinking, concentrating, making
even small tasks feel huge. They might put decisions and remembering things
less effort into school than before. Kids may Ongoing sense that life and the future are
seem tired, give up easily, or not try. grim and bleak
Kids don’t have as much fun with friends or Frequent thoughts of death, dying or
enjoy playing like before. They may not feel suicide
like doing things they used to enjoy. Behavioral changes
Kids may not sleep well or seem tired even Tiredness and loss of energy
if they get enough sleep. Insomnia or sleeping too much
Some may not feel like eating. Or overeat. Changes in appetite — decreased appetite
They could be obese, or underweight. and weight loss, or increased cravings for
Some children may complain of stomach food and weight gain
aches or other pains. Some miss school Use of alcohol or drugs – could lead to
days because of not feeling well, even addictions.
though they aren’t sick. Agitation or restlessness — for example,
Depression in teens pacing, hand-wringing or an inability to sit
Peer pressure, academic expectations still
and changing bodies can and do bring Slowed thinking, speaking or body
a lot of ups and downs for teens. But for movements
some teens, the lows are more than just Frequent complaints of unexplained body
temporary feelings — they’re a symptom of aches and headaches, which may include
depression. frequent visits to the school nurse
Teen depression isn’t a weakness Social isolation
or something that can be overcome Poor school performance or frequent
with willpower — it can have serious absences from school
consequences. Some symptoms they exhibit Less attention to personal hygiene or
are – appearance
Feelings of sadness, including crying Self-harm — for example, cutting or
spells for no apparent reason. burning
Frustration or feelings of anger, even over Making a suicide plan or a suicide attempt
small matters. An Irritable or annoyed If you have 5 or more of these symptoms
mood, without knowing why. for at least 2 weeks, you may be diagnosed
Feeling hopeless or empty with depression. These feelings are a
Loss of interest or pleasure in usual noticeable change from what’s “normal”
activities for you.
Loss of interest in, or fights with, family The symptoms of depression may look
and friends like other mental health conditions.
Low self-esteem, with feelings of Always see a healthcare provider for a
worthlessness or guilt. diagnosis.
SENIORS TODAY | ISSUE #50 | AUGUST 2023 11
