Mood Problems

Signs of depression can be variable, depending on the child’s age and personality. Young children often cannot state how they feel, and instead might complain of physical problems such as a stomach ache or headache. Although some children and adolescents openly express sadness by looking sad or crying, others might display less obvious symptoms. Irritability, rebelliousness, withdrawal from people and activities, and not paying attention can all be symptoms of depression.

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It is especially important to be aware of depression in adolescents, because depressed teens are at high risk of suicide. Depression that isn’t treated in the adolescent years also can lead to long-term mental-health problems.