Depressive Disorders

Depression is more than feeling sad or having a bad day. It is part of a group of conditions called depressive disorders that affect how people think, feel, and function. Features include lasting sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, or irritability that interfere with daily life. People with depression might feel tired all the time, have trouble sleeping, or feel like they are not good enough. Depression can affect anyone, at any age. It is not a sign of weakness but a medical condition, and it is treatable with the right supports. 

The most common type is Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), but there are other types as well. Depressive Disorders include:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) - Major Depressive Disorder, or depression involves at least two weeks of persistent symptoms that interfere with daily life. In children, this can look like irritability, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep or appetite, low energy, trouble concentrating, feelings of hopelessness or guilt, and sometimes thoughts of death or suicide.

• Persistent Depressive Disorder, sometimes called dysthymia, is a longer-lasting but often less severe form of depression. In children, symptoms such as sadness, irritability, or low self-esteem must last for at least a year. Because it is chronic, it can make it difficult for a child to feel consistently well.

• Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) is diagnosed in children ages 6 to 18. It involves severe irritability, frequent temper outbursts, and an angry mood most of the time. These symptoms go beyond typical frustration and can cause problems at home, school, and with peers.

• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) affects some adolescents and adults who menstruate. Emotional and physical symptoms such as mood swings, sadness, irritability, and fatigue occur in the week before menstruation and improve once it begins. PMDD can interfere with school, friendships, and daily life.

• Sometimes a child or youth shows clear signs of depression but does not meet all the criteria for a specific disorder. In these cases, a diagnosis of “Other Specified” or “Unspecified Depressive Disorder” may be used to recognize that support and treatment are still needed.

Signs of depression in children and teens can be different from those in adults. Here are some common signs to watch for:

• Often seeming unhappy or tearful 

• Losing interest in activities they used to enjoy, like sports or hobbies.

• Sleeping too much, too little, or having trouble falling asleep.

• Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in eating habits or appetite.

• Withdrawing from friends, family, and social activities, spending a lot of time alone.

• Frequent complaints of headaches, stomachaches, or other physical problems without a clear cause.

• Sudden drop in grades or a loss of interest in schoolwork.

• Becoming easily frustrated, angry, or irritable.

• Experiencing intense feelings of sadness or emptiness that seem to last a long time.

• Expressing feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, or saying things like “I don’t see the point in anything.”

• Difficulty focusing, making decisions, or remembering things.

• Engaging in self-injurious behaviors, such as cutting or burning.

• Engaging in risky activities or substance abuse as a way to cope with feelings.

Getting support early can make a big difference for children and teens experiencing depression. Knowing where to turn, whether it’s a trusted agency, a counselling service, or online resources, helps families and educators provide timely, effective support.