It is easier to detect depression in adults than in kids. Children who are depressed may get mistaken as going through psychological or emotional changes. Mood changes, feeling hopeless, getting irritated and sad are the most common symptoms of depression children manifest. Here is how depression is different in children than in adults.
1) Response To Criticism
Children, especially in the teenage years, get overly sensitive when they get people who criticize them. Fear of rejection can make a kid avoid playing with their peers or inviting others to school functions. Depression is so prevalent in young people that a blog owner decides to highlight the plight of such individuals and how they can get help.
Adults may be in a better position to face critics due to their understanding of their self-worth. However, a child may not have the mental capacity to know that other people’s rejection does not define who they are. Some kids even go to the extent of being perfectionists in everything they do so they do not get rejected by others.
2) Getting Irritated
When an adult gets irritated, they may have some self-control not to show it to others. However, a child once irritated may not hide their disdain and will become disrespectful, defiant, and impatient. Irritability in teens can appear to be normal due to their stage in life, which comes with mood swings. However, you should not take constant signs of irritability lightly as they could be a sign of depression.
3) Academic Performance
When it comes to academic performance, the results could worsen or get better. In a bid to impress their parents or teachers, some children may put in extra effort and pass with flying colors in their exams. However, they may also poorly perform as they spend most of their time sulking and feeling low, thus no time to study.
4) Isolation
For adults, they may stop attending social events or calling friends and prefer to be alone. With children, social withdrawal takes a different form. They may not isolate themselves entirely, but they may change their friends or the groups they were once in.
Some may stop interacting with family members and start hanging out with the wrong crowds. Others find solace on the internet and stop participating in physical activities, whether at home or school. They are trying to create a world of theirs where real-life issues do not bother them.
5) Sleep Patterns
For an adult, sleep may become elusive, making them insomniacs. Children and teens may not have sleep issues even though the pattern may change, but they will eventually sleep even if it is past sleep hours. As a parent or a caregiver, it is essential to be alert to notice any changes in your child.
If their regular behavior changes, it is proper to contact a professional to address the issue before it escalates. Early treatment through counseling or the use of antidepressants can help remedy the situation. Failure to treat depression can lead to substance abuse and even suicide.
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