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Depression in children is more common than most parents know or want to admit. There is a difference in authentic depression and the blues or simply feeling sad. Here are some symptoms of depression in children:

• Crying, feeling sad, helpless or hopeless
• Feeling discouraged or worthless
• Loss of interest or pleasure in others or most activities
• Fatigue and loss of energy nearly every day
• Bad temper, irritable, easily annoyed
• Fearful, tense, anxious
• Repeated rejection by other children
• Drop in school performance
• Inability to sit still, fidgeting or pacing
• Repeated emotional outbursts, shouting or complaining
• Doesn't talk to other children
• Repeated physical complaints without medical cause (headaches, stomach aches, aching arm or legs)
• Significant increase or decrease in appetite (not due to appropriate dieting)
• Change in sleep habits

Serious And Critical Symptoms

• Suicidal thoughts, feelings or self-harming behavior
• Abuse or prolonged use of alcohol or other drugs
• Symptoms of depression combined with strange or unusual behavior

Here are some ways to help a depressed child before it gets too far:

• There may be other behaviors such as anger, overly emotional, overly clingy, etc. masking depression in children.
• Actively listen to your children. Be careful not to say things like "that's silly" or "you're too old for that." These types of comments can make them stop talking and not open up to you.
• Be available. Kids need hugs, help with homework, story time and other moments of your time. When you focus 100% of your attention on your child, they know they are cared for and loved.
• Routines are a good thing. Establishing a routine is always good for kids. They do well when they know what to expect. That is why schedules and plans work well for kids.
• Affirm their feelings, but know you can't make everything better. Sometimes they will have to deal with disappointment and hurt. You can tell them "I know you feel bad" or "I can see that you're feeling upset about that." You can't always make everything better, but you can help then know you understand and support them.
• Be aware of what's going on at school. Make sure to talk with teachers and see if they've noticed any changes or problems with other kids.