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.

If your child is showing signs of persistent low mood, anxiety or depression, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

I really hope this has been helpful!