November 19, 2009
- Can children have depression?
Dear Mrs. Figgins:
My husband John and I divorced last year. We have a 10 year old son, Parker.
John is in the military. Throughout the years we’ve moved many places and I know this has been hard on Parker.
We see children playing, interacting and having a good time with other kids. Parker has little interest in others. He seems listless. There’s a disturbing sadness to our son.
We keep thinking this is just a phase, but he’s not snapping out of it.
Mrs. Figgins we are at a loss, and we’re beginning to panic. Is it possible for a child to have depression?
Have you ever heard of such a thing?
Myrna and John, Norfolk
Dear Myrna and John:
My heart goes out to you.
Unfortunately, an estimated 1 out of 10 children experience the symptoms of depression for long periods of time, and it may be difficult to tell whether your son is just going through a temporary “phase” or if indeed he is suffering from depression.
It’s only been in the past couple of decades that depression in children has been taken seriously.
From your letter, some of the signs of depression may be present.
Talk with your pediatrician to rule out any physical problems, and ask for a referral to a psychiatrist whose specialty is children.
The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) a nonprofit organization established in 1953 is the leading national professional medical association dedicated to treating and improving the quality of life for children, adolescents, and families affected by these disorders.
The AACAP defines the child and adolescent psychiatrist as “a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and the treatment of disorders of thinking, feeling and/or behavior affecting children, adolescents, and their families. A child and adolescent psychiatrist offers families the advantages of a medical education, the medical traditions of professional ethics, and medical responsibility for providing comprehensive care.”
It is important to get control of any potential problem immediately.
Mrs. Figgins
Children Issues,Love,Topics,advice
