Healthline | By Kimberly Holland
Medically reviewed by Karen Richardson Gill, MD, FAAP, specialty in pediatrics
More than the blues
Childhood depression is different than a moody kid who sometimes seems down or upset. Children, like adults, have times when they feel “blue” or sad. Emotional fluctuations are normal.
But if those feelings and behaviors last longer than two weeks, they may be a sign of an affective disorder like depression.
Depression isn’t an adult-only illness.
Depression isn’t an adult-only illness. Children and adolescents can and do develop depression. Children may go undiagnosed and untreated because parents and caregivers may struggle to recognize the signs of the disorder.
Depression affects about 3 percent of U.S. children. The persistent sadness and symptoms can interfere with daily life, interrupting school and social activities.
Childhood depression is a serious mental health issue, but it is treatable. Learn about the signs, symptoms, causes, and risks associated with childhood depression. Read More »