Child Depression and Adolescent Depression Therapy in Cary NC
We know that depression in adults is real, but children and teens can suffer from it too. Depression in kids is sometimes difficult to identify, especially in teens, because we all know that puberty and adolescence involves a lot of changing emotions. Younger children often don't have the language yet to describe their feelings, making it difficult to identify in that age group as well.
First things first: Clinical depression is a very real disorder that requires treatment. It can't be willed away, or loved away. Treatment does not always require medications. Many individuals with depression have benefited from cognitive-behavioral therapy and some lifestyle changes. We can help to determine if your child or teen is suffering from depression and discuss all the treatment options with you, not just medication.
Important:
If your child or teen shows any signs of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, get help right away. Call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or take your child or teen to the local emergency room. You can also call 911 in a suicide risk situation. Always take suicidal statements seriously.
What are some signs that my child or teen might be suffering from depression?
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Crying spells (not always present!)
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Changes in appetite or sleeping patterns
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Lost interest in previously enjoyed activities
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Withdrawing from friends and family
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Spending a lot of time in the bedroom
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Scratch marks on arms or other body part
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Angry/irritable outbursts
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Negative, pessimistic statements
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Talking about death/dying
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Lack of energy
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Slipping grades
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Difficulty concentrating
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Stomach aches or headaches
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Apathy or lack of feeling
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Poor attitude
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No interest in the future
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Self-harm
Your depressed child or teen needs professional help. If you are seeing some concerning signs in your child and are not sure if they are depressed or if something else is going on, consider scheduling with one of our therapists. Children and teens will often open up to trusted adults other than their parents. Don't take this personally! Your child or teen might not tell you they're depressed because they are protecting you from their pain.
If you have a child or teen with depression, don't wait. Reach out today to schedule with one of our child psychologists, child therapists, or teen therapists.
