Signs Your Child Might Be Depressed
THINKING
- Thinking about themselves & future negatively
- Excessive guilt
- Thoughts about death or hurting themselves
- Difficulties concentrating (doesn’t seem to listen, mind is ‘elsewhere’)
- Forgetful
- Expecting the worst
- Finding it difficult to make decisions
EMOTIONS
- Feelings of sadness (unhappy, seems down)
- Depressed mood
- Not interested in usual activities
- Not experiencing pleasure
- Anxiety & apprehension
- Bored & hard to motivate
- Whining & whinging
BEHAVIOUR
- Restlessness, fidgety, difficulties settling
- Agitation, nervous, jumpy
- Not doing activities they usually enjoy
- Slowed movements, dawdling
PHYSICALLY
- Fatigued/tired
- Changes in sleeping
- Changes in eating
- Changes in weight
- Aches & pains
WHAT YOU CAN DO
- Maintain normal routines & activities
- Make tie to talk to them when there are no distractions
- Listen to them Remain supportive
- Keep them active- physical exercise can promote a positive mood
- Encourage them to make time with their friends
- Schedule time for fun activities Encourage relaxation
- Break down tasks that are viewed as “too big” & overwhelming
- Model positive actions Give positive feedback & encouragement
- Gently challenge your child’s negative
CONSIDER CONSULTING A PROFESSIONAL
- Clinical Psychologist
- Registered Psychologist
- School Counsellor
- General Practitioner
- Psychiatrist
- Local Community Health centre
- Free phone service for kids:1800551800
