How to tell if your child is depressed By being aware of the signs of depression, parents and caregivers can get children the help they need to get well. No one likes me. Everything is my fault. If a child or teen talks of suicide, treat this as a medical emergency and get help immediately. The precise causes of depression are unknown.
Experts suspect several factors play a role in the development of depression in children.
Depression also tends to run in families with a history of mental illness or suicide. Each child's depression is individual, and causes are different for each one. Likewise, treatment will be highly individualized for each child. Any change in your child's behavior that does not seem to have a physical or external cause is reason for concern. If you notice any signs of depression in your child, talk to your family doctor.