Is Your Child Depressed?

Parents want their kids to be healthy and that extends beyond basic physical health to social, financial, academic, spiritual and emotional health. This last category is often called “mental health” and it can be hard to figure out if a child’s thoughts, feelings and behavior are normal or abnormal for a certain age. Here are some things for parents to keep in mind when trying to figure out if their child is experiencing a normal developmental “phase” or a potentially damaging mental health crisis.

1. Watch for patterns of behavior. All kids will have good days and bad days and kids go through normal fluctuations in feelings and emotions during various times in life. If problematic behavior begins to be seen on more days than not for several months, it may need to be addressed. Most problematic behaviors start as a pattern rather than as a one-time incident. (See the next section for the best ways to address problems.)
2. Watch for problems that show up in all environments. If a child appears to be struggling with a certain problem at home, school, church, with friends and in other environments, this may indicate a significant issue that needs attention. On the other hand, if the struggle only pops up at home, this is more likely something about the environment rather than a difficulty related to the child. It needs to be addressed; however it is often easier to make changes in the environment than to change the child.
3. Pay attention to how much a pattern of thinking, feeling or behaving affects a child’s everyday life. If that pattern causes significant changes in weight, sleeping, friendships and the ability to get to work or school, it is time to get some help for the child.
4. Consult with trusted parents, family members, teachers, youth leaders and other professionals who regularly interact with the child. Ask them if they have noticed any problems and have concerns about the child.

If parents have considered these points and have decided that a child needs help, here are some steps to take to find qualified, competent help.

1. Ask the child’s teacher or principal if there are counselors, school psychologists or school social workers on staff. If so, those professionals can conduct assessments and provide counseling and other forms of mental health support, all free of charge in most cases. Or, they can offer referrals for mental health help in the community.
2. Ask trusted friends and family members for referrals in the community.
3. Contact a local mental health center and request an assessment. Community mental health centers offer a variety of services at a lower cost than most private facilities.
4. Some non-profit organizations can also provide resources and referrals.
5. Early intervention is the key so act once you see a pattern of problematic behavior. Much can be done to prevent a problem from escalating.