Depression in Children
Alternate Names : Childhood Depression
What can be done to prevent the condition?
Depression may not be preventable. Some steps that may be helpful in preventing depression include the following:
avoiding alcohol and illegal drugs
avoiding cigarette smoking
getting prompt treatment for other psychiatric disorders
seeking effective treatment for chronic diseases
talking with a counselor if the child experiences a major trauma
Depression can lead to suicide. It is important to recognize and treat the condition early. Children should be encouraged to talk to someone if they are concerned about depression. There are many people they can talk to including the following:
a clergy member
a family doctor
parents or a trusted family member
a professional at a mental health center
a psychologist
a school counselor
What are the long-term effects of the condition?
Most children recover well from a single episode of depression. However, episodes are likely to recur. Children with depression are at risk for further episodes of depression later in life. They are also at risk for adult personality disorders. Children with depression are more likely to commit suicide than other children.
What are the risks to others?
Depression is not contagious and poses no risk to others.
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