Though the term "depression" can describe a normal human emotion, it also can refer to more severe problems when symptoms don't seem to pass and last more than two weeks. Depressive illness in children and adolescents also includes a group of symptoms that have been present for at least two weeks.
In addition to feelings of sadness and possibly irritability, a depressive problem that could lead to a more serious disorder includes several of the following:

• Change of appetite with either significant weight loss (when not dieting) or weight gain

• Change in sleeping patterns (such as trouble falling asleep, waking up in the middle of the night, early morning awakening, or sleeping too much)

• Loss of interest in activities formerly enjoyed

• Loss of energy, fatigue, feeling slowed down for no reason, "burned out"

• Feelings of guilt and self blame for things that are not one's fault

• Inability to concentrate and indecisiveness

• Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness

• Recurring thought of death and suicide, wishing to die, or attempting suicide

Children and adolescents with depression may also have symptoms of irritability, grumpiness, and boredom. They may have vague, non-specific physical complaints (stomachaches, headaches, etc.). There is an increased incidence of depressive illness in the children of parents with significant depression.

Not only adults become depressed. Children and teenagers also may have depression, which is a treatable problem. The behavior of depressed children and teenagers may differ from the behavior of depressed adults. Depression is defined as an illness when the feelings of depression persist and interfere with a child or adolescent's ability to function.

About 5 percent of children and adolescents in the general population suffer from depression at any given point in time. Children under stress, who experience loss, or who have attentional, learning, conduct or anxiety disorders are at a higher risk for depression. Depression also tends to run in families.
If one or more of these signs of depression persist, parents should seek help:
Frequent sadness, tearfulness, crying; Hopelessness;
Decreased interest in activities; or inability to enjoy previously favorite activities; Persistent boredom; low energy; Social isolation, poor communication; Low self esteem and guilt; Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure
Increased irritability, anger, or hostility; Difficulty with relationships
Frequent complaints of physical illnesses such as headaches and stomachaches; Frequent absences from school or poor performance in school; Poor concentration;
A major change in eating and/or sleeping patterns; Talk of or efforts to run away from home; Thoughts or expressions of suicide or self destructive behavior

A child who used to play often with friends may now spend most of the time alone and without interests. Things that were once fun now bring little joy to the depressed child. Children and adolescents who are depressed may say they want to be dead or may talk about suicide. Depressed children and adolescents are at increased risk for committing suicide. Depressed adolescents may abuse alcohol or other drugs as a way to feel better.

Children and adolescents who cause trouble at home or at school may also be suffering from depression. Because the youngster may not always seem sad, parents and teachers may not realize that troublesome behavior is a sign of depression. When asked directly, these children can sometimes state they are unhappy or sad.

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for depressed children. Depression is a real illness that requires professional help. Comprehensive treatment often includes both individual and family therapy. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) are forms of individual therapy shown to be effective in treating depression. Treatment may also include the use of antidepressant medication.Eastern Psychotherapy is a stance that generates awakening wisdom, virtues, and character strengths. By providing a happiness formula, resulting in vital engagement of life, a fullness of participation, and culminates in a state of excellence. Much of our lives we are taught to perform in an episodic state, temporarily motivated, as opposed to having positive traits- a continuous way of being, a disposition. Positive Attachment (known as Secure Attachment) works to create this flow, an optimal positive trait, through planning and preparation to achieve self-acceptance, positive relationships with others, personal growth, purpose in life, a mastery of our environment, and autonomy and self-determination. The functions of happiness such as joy and play, love, satisfaction while doing nothing are strengthened. Skills such as eliciting positive life events, seeking pleasurable activities, and putting one's self into a good mood develop resilience for the things in life we don't have control over.

The ideal psychotherapist embraces the notion that his/her task is to facilitate the client's own natural tendencies for self-actualization and happiness. Please contact us for more information about Attachment.