Doha: As part of an ongoing mental health awareness campaign, Dr Hanan Derby, Senior Consultant Psychiatrist at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has urged parents to be aware that depression can and does occur in children contrary to the belief that the condition does not affect the younger ones.
She noted that being aware of the signs and symptoms will enable parents to be more vigilant in seeking treatment for their children at an early stage, which will benefit their recovery.
“It is a common belief that children do not experience depression, when in fact a significant proportion of mental illnesses do develop in adolescence – often before the age of 14. This belief is problematic because if parents do not think that depression is possible in their children, they will not consider that it may be something they need treatment or support for,” explained Dr Derby.
“Symptoms of depression in children and adolescents can present as functioning poorly at school, socially, or at home. It might even present as bad behavior, particularly in boys. Also, lack of interest, mood swings and physical aches are not uncommon symptoms,” explained Dr Derby.
She said that the duration and persistence of the symptoms is something that parents should be paying attention to. “The key thing as a parent is to recognise how persistent the symptoms are. If they presented for a day or two then it is unlikely that depression is the cause; however, if these symptoms are longer lasting – it is advisable to seek medical advice.”
The symptoms of depression are also common for other illnesses and conditions in children that are not mental health related and these should be explored. “There could be another medical issue at the root of these symptoms and a visit to the doctor as soon as possible will help to rule out other issues such as hypothyroidism or anemia,” explained Dr. Derby.
She noted that once other conditions are ruled out, a consultation with a mental health expert is advisable. “Depression needs treatment, just as any other illness. It will not disappear overnight. A children’s mental health expert will be able to make an assessment and discuss the best possible treatment options, of which there are many.”
The Peninsula
