Recognizing Depression in Children

Often, it can be hard for children to communicate certain feelings that they may have. When a child is dealing with depression, they may not understand what they’re going through and won’t be able to explain how they feel and what they’re struggling with. It’s important that as a parent, you’re able to identify signs of depression in your child so that they can get the care that they need to manage their depression. Our pediatricians at West Park Pediatrics in Manalapan, Ocean, and Lakewood, NJ, can explain the signs of depression and how you can recognize it in your child.

Spotting Signs of Depression in Children

When a child is struggling with depression, it can affect various aspects of their life. They might start struggling in school, isolating themselves from friends, and dropping out of activities that they typically enjoy. It’s important to get your child the care and treatment that they need to start managing their depression and living their best life.

You can’t always expect your child to tell you when they might be dealing with depression, so it’s important to discuss the signs of depression with our pediatrician in Manalapan, Ocean, and Lakewood, NJ. While depression can manifest differently in each person, there are common signs to look out for with your child.

Common signs of depression include:

• Extreme changes in sleep
• Loss of appetite
• Overeating
• Disinterest in activities
• Mood swings
• Feeling hopeless
• Issues concentrating
• Self-harm

It’s important that you are able to identify these symptoms and get your child the care and attention that they need to function.

Contact Our Pediatrician Today

Care for your child’s mental health! Contact your pediatricians at West Park Pediatrics in Manalapan, Ocean, and Lakewood, NJ, to learn more about depression and spotting it in your child. Call for more information and to schedule your appointment today at (732) 531-0010 for the office in Ocean, NJ, (732) 577-0088 for the office in Manalapan, NJ, and (732) 370-8500 for the office in Lakewood, NJ.