HCPC Offers Tips to Recognize, Handle Childhood Depression

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry estimates that more than 3 million children suffer from depression. More than 20,000 children in Harris County suffer from depression and other mental illnesses. Unfortunately, less than half receive the treatment they need, often because parents fail to recognize the seriousness of their child's mental state.

"Too often parents ignore a child's sadness or depression as just another part of-growing up," says Harris County Psychiatric Center administrator David R. Small, MBA, FACHE. "In reality, the child may be suffering from clinical depression, which is serious but can be treated."

Depressed children may exhibit one or more of the following behaviors:

• feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, helplessness, total indifference and/or extreme guilt;
• prolonged sadness; unexplained crying spells;
• jumpiness or irritability;
• withdrawal from formerly enjoyable activities or relationships;
• inability to concentrate or remember details, indecisiveness;
• noticeable change in appetite with sudden weight loss or gain;
• changes in sleep patterns: constant fatigue, insomnia, early waking, oversleeping;
• physical ailments that cannot be explained otherwise; or
• thoughts of death or suicide attempts.

Treatment for depression is available for children through medications and psychiatric counseling with the child and family.

"Depression takes a tremendous toll on children - physically, mentally and socially. If recognized and treated from the onset, children with depression can avoid a lifetime of mental anxiety and suffering," says Small.

For free brochures in English or Spanish on childhood depression or other mental health issues, contact HCPC at 713-741-5000.

- Harris County Psychiatric Center

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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