May is Mental Health Month
Depression in children and teens
As many as one in every 33 children may have depression; in teens, that number may be as high as one in 8.
Depression limits one's ability to function normally. There are different types of depression: major depression, dysthymia, adjustment disorder with depressed mood, seasonal affective disorder and bipolar disorder. All of these types of depression can affect children.
The cause of depression varies from child to child, but it usually is caused by a series of one or more events. Depression can be caused by the lowered level of neurotransmitters in the brain, which restricts a person’s ability to feel good. If depression runs in the family, a child may be more likely to experience it. Stress is a factor as well, especially in the teen years, which are a time of emotional and social turmoil. Chronic illness can contribute to depression, as well as the side effects of certain prescription medicines.
For more information about understanding depression in children, click here.
Source: Nemours Foundation. Kids Health for Parents. Understanding Depression. May 2007.
This message is brought to you by the Integration Initiative Partners:
USD 491 Eudora
USD 348 Baldwin City
East Central Kansas Cooperative
Douglas County Youth Services
Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center
