Childhood Depression

Mar. 1, 2000

Most of us know the dangers of depression, but it's not something we usually think of in children. In today's Family Now report, News Specialist Ruth Todd shows us the impact of depression on children and what parents can do.

A recent study says Utah has one of the highest suicide rates in the nation. And the suicide rate is even worse among young people - a tragedy possibly fueled by the mental illness depression.

Experts estimate that depression affects five percent of all children.

Like most teenagers, Leslie Mast struggles with her homework. But she's also battling depression.

Leslie Mast/Depression Patient: "I TRIED TO KILL MYSELF IN SEVENTH GRADE WHEN IT FIRST CAME ON BECAUSE I DIDN'T KNOW WHAT WAS HAPPENING."

She got help, but still struggles. Like many teens, Leslie was embarrassed.

Sarah Mast/Mother: "SHE REALLY DIDN'T WANT THERAPY. SHE DIDN'T WANT MEDICATION. SHE DIDN'T WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW THAT THIS WAS HAPPENING TO HER."

That might explain why fewer than half of kids who need help, get it. Also, experts say teen depression is unique - its symptoms differ from adults.

Michael Faenza/National Mental Health Association "OFTENTIMES DEPRESSION IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS COMES THROUGH AS ANGER AND BEING WITHDRAWN."

Others signs of childhood depression include

• Persistent sadness.
• Feelings of worthlessness. A child may make such statements as, "I'm bad. I'm stupid. No one likes me."
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns.
• Recurring thoughts of death or suicide.