However, depression in children often looks quite different than depression in adults. Older children may become unusually withdrawn from family and friends or may sleep much more than usual. Many children have a difficult time adjusting to the diagnosis of a brain tumor, either in themselves or in a member of their family. Adjustment difficulties are normal and predictable. However, if the problems do not resolve over time, it will be important to get professional help to sort out the causes of the child s behavior.
Many people are aware that depression happens frequently among persons with cancer.
But fewer people recognize that family members and friends who care for someone with cancer also often experience depression during the illness. Caregiving is stressful. If you become overwhelmed, you won t be able to provide care and support. Eating well, getting enough sleep, taking time out to do things that you enjoy outside of your caring responsibilities, and exercising routinely can help prevent you from becoming seriously depressed yourself. You can get professional help for yourself, too, to help you deal with the feelings and consequences of the illness of your loved one.