Depression (Children)
What Is Depression?
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Depression is a common mental health condition that can affect a child's mood, thoughts, behaviour and everyday life. Whilst all children experience sadness from time to time, depression involves persistent low mood that lasts for weeks or months and begins to impact school, friendships, family life and activities they would usually enjoy.
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Many parents describe noticing that their child has become withdrawn, irritable, emotional, less interested in hobbies or struggling to cope with everyday challenges. Children do not always say they feel depressed and may instead show changes in behaviour, motivation, confidence or emotional regulation.
How Can I Help...
I provide evidence-based support for children, young people and families experiencing depression, low mood and emotional difficulties.
Support may include:
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• Post-Diagnostic Support to better understand a diagnosis and develop practical coping strategies.
• Neurodiversity Coaching.
• Confidence and Self-Esteem Support.
• Animal-Assisted Therapy where appropriate.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), including Behavioural Activation and Cognitive Restructuring.
• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills to support emotional regulation and distress tolerance.
• Neurodiversity-Informed Therapy for individuals with ADHD, autism and executive functioning difficulties.
What are the symptoms of depression?
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• Persistent sadness or low mood
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Chronic tiredness and exhaustion
• Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
• Low self-esteem
• Tearfulness
• Feelings of guilt
• Lack of motivation or interest
• Difficulty making decisions
• Difficulty concentrating
• Withdrawing from family, friends or social activities
• Inability to enjoy life
• Anxiety or worry
• Suicidal thoughts or self-harm
What is Depression
Book Recommendations
Depression: A Teen's Guide To Survive And Thrive
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- 17th Oct, 2016
by Jacqueline B. Toner (Author) & Claire A. B. Freeland (Author)
