Depression is a broad diagnosis of which a central feature is depressed mood or loss of pleasure in most activities. Depressive symptoms are frequently accompanied by symptoms of anxiety, but may also occur on their own.
There are several indicators that suggest a diagnosis may be appropriate:
- Persistent sadness or low (irritable) mood;
- Loss of interests and/or pleasure;
- Fatigue or low energy;
- Poor or increased sleep;
- Poor concentration or indecisiveness;
- Low self-confidence;
- Poor or increased appetite;
- Suicidal thoughts or acts;
- Agitation or slowing of movements;
- Guilt or self-blame.
Depression is a prime example of the way in which diagnostics can be useful but limited. “Having” depression is not as simple as having a broken leg, it not always simply indicative of an internal process but needs to be investigated and understood within the context of a child’s experience and environment. Indeed, depression (in fact any set of symptoms) can be a very “normal” reaction to abnormal circumstances.
In the case of children who have experienced early abuse and/or neglect, difficulties in experiencing joy and the production of positive neurochemicals can be related to early experience of poor care due to the experience dependent nature of baby’s brains.
Adapted from
NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence).
