Depression in young people is more common than you might think

WHEN TO WORRY

If your child shows any of the following signs or symptoms, for more than 2 weeks consistently, then please arrange an appointment.

Low mood 

Disturbed or poor sleep, can't get to sleep until very late or waking up early. 

Poor appetite or perhaps 'comfort eating'

Cannot concentrentrate - even on things they enjoy

Tired all the time, no motivation 

Not spending time with their friends, spending more time in their room away from family

Stopping hobbies or out of school activities 

Self harming

Negative about the future

Low self esteem and talk in a negative way about themselves

Guilty feelings, blame themselves for everything

Irritability

Perhaps getting in trouble at school or doing less well academically

Lots of worries and anxieties

 

What makes them better?

Depression is possible to treat.

Often medication such as fluoxetine is used, an antidepressant.

It can take a few weeks to work fully and so the sooner you seek help the better.

Talking therapy from nursing and psychology colleagues can also provide anxiety management strategies.

CBT a specific form of talking therapy can help negative thoughts.

Further information can be found here Royal College of psychiatrists Depression Leaflet

Parents and carers - depression leaflet

 

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