Signs of Depression in Children
As with many mental health issues, depression is on the rise among UK children. To help support parents and caregivers, I thought it might be helpful to offer some supportive and compassionate advice.
Firstly, what is depression?
Depression is a mood disorder characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and low self-esteem. It often affects a person's daily activities, relationships, and overall quality of life.
Common symptoms of depression in children might include…
😞 A persistent sad or irritable mood
😞 Loss of interest in activities they previously enjoyed
😞 Significant changes in weight or appetite
😞 Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
😞 Low energy or fatigue
😞 Difficulty concentrating
😞 Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
😞 Physical complaints (headaches, stomach aches, etc.)
My top tips for supporting children with depression as a parent or loved-one are…
❤️ Listen actively to their concerns without judgment or blaming, and create a supportive environment where they feel safe to express their feelings.
❤️ Encourage them to engage in activities they enjoy, such as art, music, or sports, and help them set achievable goals.
❤️ Establish a consistent routine for eating, sleeping, and other daily activities to provide structure and stability.
❤️ Encourage them to seek professional help, such as therapy or counseling, and support them in attending appointments. Contacting the GP is really important too.
❤️ Practice self-care and seek support for yourself, as caring for a child or teenager with depression can be challenging and stressful.
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What Is Positive Mental Health Coaching and How Can It Help You?
Positive Mental Health Coaching focuses on helping you develop a healthier relationship with your thoughts, emotions, and overall mental state. It’s all about empowering you to recognise your strengths, embrace self-compassion, and take proactive steps towards improving your mental wellbeing. Unlike therapy, which often focuses on resolving past issues, coaching is future-focused – it’s about setting goals, building resilience, and creating the life you want moving forward.
What Is Person Centred Counselling and How Can It Help You?
Person-centred counselling is all about you – your feelings, thoughts, and experiences. It’s based on the belief that every person has the potential for personal growth and healing, given the right support. As a person-centred counsellor, my role is not to tell you what to do or fix you, but to create a safe, non-judgemental space where you can explore whatever’s on your mind.
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