How to Help a Depressed Child in the Classroom

Most teachers at some point have had a student who seems lazy and impossible to motivate. Typical methods of reinforcement or discipline don't work. Maybe the student sleeps in class or acts out.

Such a student may be depressed. More than an ordinary case of "the blues," depression impairs the ability to function. Since teachers spend so much time in the classroom with their students, they may be the first to notice when a child is depressed. Teachers can play a crucial part in getting their students the help they need. Thus, it is important that teachers have some idea of what to look for. There are also some things that can be done to help in the classroom and school setting, though this should not replace psychotherapy and/or medical treatment, if needed.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. If you suspect that a student in your class is depressed, talk to her parents or caregiver. The parent may be unaware of the problem, but she may be able to provide some insights into her child's behavior. Risk factors can include but are not limited to divorce, loss of a close friend or family member (even a pet), recent move or family members who have been depressed.

2. Consult support personnel such as a school counselor or school psychologist for guidance.

3. Develop a connection with the student. He may not act like it, but he is in need of extra caring and support. Use positive approaches.

4. As with any child who is having trouble in the classroom, certain accommodations can help. Breaking assignments into smaller pieces can make them seem less overwhelming. Help them with their study habits or in setting up a study schedule. Modifying some assignments may be appropriate.

5. Pairing the depressed student up with another student may help her complete her assignments and have better social connections. A good choice for a study partner might be a student who has done peer tutoring or counseling.

6. As much as possible, provide opportunities for success. Students who don't feel competent may be at greater risk for depression. Help the student recognize and acknowledge his positive contributions and performance. One way to help them feel successful might be having them help with younger or disabled students.

7. Take care of yourself. In order to be there for the kids, you must be good to yourself. Celebrate your own successes, and do something nice for yourself each day.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that depressed kids aren't usually deliberately defiant or uncooperative. Their depression keeps them from functioning at their ability level.
• An estimated 8 to 10 percent of students experience a serious enough depression to require extra help.
• Pre-adolescent boys and girls experience similar rates of depression, but from adolescence on, depressed girls and women outnumber depressed boys and men 2 to 1.
• Pre-adolescent depressed children may tend to experience more physical symptoms, such as stomach aches or headaches.
• Depressed children and adolescents may not seem sad. They may seem more irritable or angry. Depressed people display their symptoms in different ways.
• Depression often co-exists with other problems, such as anxiety, Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder, conduct problems and substance abuse.

Resources

• NASP
• Minnesota Association for Children's Mental Health
• Brookes
• NEA

[sappho99336]

on 2/1/2008 Yes, lots of times kids have more than one diagnosis. Sometimes I think people get confused because the child doesn't seem depressed, and they don't realize what is underneath the surface.

[msunchild]

on 2/1/2008 Often times ADHD students have depression along with it that goes untreated. This is an important topic that needs to be addressed by teachers.