Once a young person has experienced a major depression episode, he or she is at risk of developing another depression episode within the next five years. Two-thirds of children with mental health problems do not get the help they need. A study led by Dr. Graham Emslie of the University of Texas, Southwestern Medical Center, concludes that treatment of major depression is as effective for children as it is for adults. Youth under stress who experience a loss or who have attention, learning, or conduct disorders are at a higher risk for depression. Four out of every five runaway youths suffer from depression.
Clinical depression can contribute to eating disorders.
An eating disorder can also lead to a state of clinical depression. Be aware of the behaviors that are a concern. Note how long the behaviors have been going on, how often they occur, and how severe they seem. See a mental health professional or the child's doctor for evaluation and diagnosis. Get reputable information from sources such as libraries and professional organization helplines and Web sites.