Symptoms of Depression in Children

British Columbia Specific Information

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out for help. Support is available:

  • Call or text National Suicide Crisis Helpline at 9-8-8
  • BC Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789 (no area code required) 
  • BC Suicide Prevention and Intervention Line: Call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)

Support for children and youth:

Kids Help Phone: Call 1-800-668-6868 or visit Kids Help Phone for support and resources. 

For more support and resources, visit:

Overview

Children who are depressed may have the same symptoms as adults. But adults may believe that these symptoms are normal in children. Some signs that may alert adults that children are depressed include:

  • Being irritable and crying for no reason you can see.
  • Avoiding friends and social events. Having depression makes it difficult for children to make and keep friendships.
  • Doing poorly in school or refusing to go to school.
  • Paying little attention to how they look.
  • Having behaviour problems such as temper tantrums, becoming sexually active, or using alcohol or illegal drugs.
  • Not getting along well with parents. Children who are depressed may avoid hugs and other signs of affection from their parents.
  • Physical complaints such as headache or stomach ache with no cause you can see.

Credits

Current as of: October 20, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
John Pope MD - Pediatrics
Donald Sproule MDCM, CCFP - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
David A. Axelson MD - Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
David A. Brent MD - Child and Adolescent Psychiatry