About Child and Adolescent Depression and Anxiety
Sadness & anxiety is a normal part of growing up, but when this persists help could be required
70% of children & adolescents Do not receive appropriate intervention.
Almost all children will experience feelings of sadness and anxiety from time to time which is a completely normal part of growing up. When these issues persist, it might be time to consider getting some help. Early intervention can reduce interference with healthy development and help to reduce the chance of long-term issues that may be carried with them into teenage years and adulthood.
Child & Teenage Depression; The Signs & Symptoms
Depression can affect all aspects of a child or teenagers life
Childhood depression can take many forms but typically can manifest as persistent sadness, low mood and feelings loneliness, worthlessness, and hopelessness. Depression can affect all aspects of a child life including life at home, education, relationships, and development.
Depression in children and adolescents can be assessed, diagnosed, and treated with therapy and in some cases medication.
Causes of depression in young people can be due to a combination of factors: physical health, life events, family history, environment, and genetics.
Symptoms of depression in children & teenagers
- Persistent feelings of hopelessness and sadness
- Loss of interest in daily activities
- Restless or excessive sleep
- Thoughts of hurting themselves
- Anger & irritability
- Inability to concentrate
- Changes in appetite
- Teenagers may turn to drugs and alcohol
- Feeling empty or numb
- Low confidence
- Engaging in risk taking behaviours
Child & Teenage Anxiety Disorder; The Signs & Symptoms
Anxiety in children & teenagers can lead to panic attacks, isolation, phobias & OCD
Children and adolescents with anxiety will often worry excessively and may be very hard on themselves. Some children with anxiety may experience panic attacks or withdraw or isolate themselves. It can also develop as a specific phobia or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Any type of anxiety can severely affect their thoughts and behaviours and interfere with emotional, social, and physical development. It can be very difficult for someone experiencing anxiety to see that their worry and intense feeling of unease is irrational and that’s why getting additional support can be necessary.
Symptoms of Anxiety in children & teenagers
- Feeling constantly worried or restless
- Always crying or being clingy
- Finding it hard to concentrate
- Episodes of panic & fear
- Feeling unwell or stomach aches
- Irrational fears
- Difficulty sleeping or waking in the night
- Avoiding normal situations
Giving children, teenagers, and families the best possible start
Therapy & Support For Anxiety and Depression at Home Counties Therapy
Depression and Anxiety can be assessed and diagnosed by your GP, CAMHS or one of our therapists. We will discuss with you and your child/adolescent any challenges and problems that you have been experiencing. We will review in partnership with families what treatment would be best, it may be a small number of sessions to help your child to develop healthy coping strategies or longer term therapy which will provide ongoing support and check-ups. We are able to liaise with family members, GP’s, schools and are able to provide reports where necessary.
