Understanding the Causes of Depression in Children

All children experience a range of emotions, but if your little one feels “blue” for more than a few days, and it prevents them from engaging in activities they enjoy or spending time with friends, a more serious problem, like childhood depression, may be to blame. 

At Sunny Hill Pediatrics, Dr. Jung and our caring team have years of experience diagnosing and treating childhood depression. Here, we explain what childhood depression is and explore some of its most common causes.

What is childhood depression?

Childhood depression is a chronic mood disorder that affects the way your child or teen behaves and thinks. If your child has depression, they may experience sadness that lasts for two weeks or longer. They might also lose interest in activities they used to love or feel hopeless. 

Even though all children experience emotional ups and downs, persistent feelings of sadness could indicate a mood disorder. Thankfully, various treatment options exist.

Common causes of depression in children

Experts aren’t entirely sure why some children have depression, but several factors are thought to contribute, including:

1. Family history of depression

Research suggests children with depressed parents and grandparents are more likely to experience depression themselves. Similarly, children of depressed parents are more likely to feel like they’re responsible for their parents' symptoms. 

To be clear, just because you or your partner have depression doesn’t mean your child will, too. However, it can increase their risk. 

2. Stressful life events

For many people, childhood is a time of exploration and joy. Unfortunately, not every child has such a positive experience. 

Stressful life events like bullying, divorce, or the death of a loved one, can have long-lasting effects on children’s mental health. Some children have natural coping skills, while others struggle to adjust to these significant life events. Without an adequate support system in place, depression may occur.

3. Chronic health problems

Chronic illnesses, like Type 1 diabetes and epilepsy, require daily treatment and monitoring. However, the constant need for doctor’s visits, healthy lifestyle changes, and prescription medications can affect your child or teen’s mood, outlook, and quality of life. 

For instance, if your child has Type 1 diabetes, they may need to avoid fun school events like Trunk or Treating or sharing birthday cake with friends. These things may seem inconsequential in the grand scheme of things, but they can be devastating for kids. 

Research backs up this thinking. Studies have found that children with Type 1 diabetes are more likely to experience depression and other psychological disorders than children without.

4. Personality

Each child has a unique personality that makes up their distinctive character. Some personality traits are thought to increase the risk of depression. For example, one study found that neurotic teens are more likely to have depression, while another found that introversion contributed to depression.

Neuroticism is the tendency to experience negative emotions, like anger and sadness. Introversion, on the other hand, is the tendency to be shy and self-conscious.

We can help your child or teen manage depression!

If you’ve noticed behavioral or emotional changes in your child or teen, don’t wait for professional help. A combination of counseling, prescription medication, and activity changes can improve your child’s outlook and quality of life. 
Contact Sunny Hill Pediatrics today if you’re concerned about childhood depression. Call the office in Frisco, Texas, or click our online booking feature.