How Stress & Depression Affect Children

Symptoms

Children are under significant stress with the increased workload at school, their parents' economic concerns and the bullying that many children endure. Recognizing the signs of stress and depression in children is important so you can get help when it's needed. Anxiety about an upcoming test, frustration with peer situations and even tummy aches associated with giving an oral report are all normal occurrences of stress in children. When stress becomes significant enough to interfere in the child's functioning, it could signal a bigger problem. Frequent headaches or stomachaches, bed wetting, prolonged crying or yelling fits and an avoidance of certain situations are all signs that the stress has begun to affect the child's well-being. Stress can lead to depression in children, which can be identified by periods of sadness lasting longer than two weeks, disturbances in sleep and appetite, feelings of worthlessness, thoughts of suicide and a loss of pleasure in activities.

If you recognize signs of stress or depression in your child, it is important to act quickly. Talk to your child about what is causing the stress. Your child may be embarrassed by the situation or tell you nothing is wrong, but it is important not to ignore the warning signs. Speak with the child's teacher to find out whether something is occurring at school that could be causing the symptoms. Get the school counselor involved so that you have support at the school. Seek professional help if the symptoms seem to be causing significant interference in functioning or if you are concerned the child may harm herself. A child or family therapist can help the child develop coping strategies to deal with the stress. A psychiatrist may be necessary if medication is warranted.

Dealing with stress and depression can be difficult and even embarrassing for a child. Providing support and understanding for your child is an important part of the treatment process. Allowing your child to share his feelings without feeling judged or ridiculed is vital. Talk to siblings about your child's condition so that the entire family can provide support. Help your child with the therapy process by encouraging her to use the techniques she learns. Help him role-play scenarios that may cause stress and encourage him to journal his thoughts. Reassure your child that everything will work out and that there will be an improvement in her symptoms. Stress and depression can be difficult for the entire family, but with appropriate help the symptoms can be alleviated.