Education key to treating child depression properly
©Kathy Smith: June 1995 - Health Care News

Long before children develop language and cognitive skills, they can experience depression. Depression is a common disorder that can affect people of all ages. It is a complex problem for anyone to battle at any stage of life.

"When an infant fails to thrive, grow and develop, he or she may be experiencing analytic depression," says Dr. Richard Arnot from the Mental Health Services branch of the Queen Alexandria Centre for Children's Health in Victoria. "Any process that obstructs healthy development can lead to a depressed state."

"In my experience, a large proportion of childhood depression cases are situational. But some families have a chemical vulnerability." One of the difficulties in diagnosing depression is often a change of circumstances can relieve it. "Situation changes seem to correct a high number of such problems," Arnot said.

Following difficulties experienced in early childhood, the school years can also be a stressful time for children as they struggle with changes. A child may be experiencing problems he or she cannot resolve such as being separated from home and peer pressure. "A child may become anxious, irritable and tearful over a period of time," he said. "If a child was previously outgoing, watch for a change in behaviour.

Unexpected behaviours may also be displayed which may lead to a breakdown of compliance with family rules. Arnot cautions parents as increased disciplinary action may create further stress for both the child and parents. If you suspect your child is suffering from depression, Arnot suggests you contact a family physician who can request a consultation with a pediatrician, child psychologist or psychiatrist.

Treatment of childhood depression depends on it being diagnosed properly, says Sexual Abuse Intervention Program Director, Susan Landell of the Pacific Centre Family Services Association. "I believe there are several factors that help a child in his struggle with depression, his predisposition to the disorder, his innate capacity to deal with stress in his environment and the level of parental involvement and support," she said.

"Without treatment there is a higher risk of recurrent depression. The basic types of treatment for childhood depression are art/play therapy and family therapy. For adults, therapies may include psychotherapy, medications or a combination of both light therapy, cognitive therapy, behavioral therapy, biofeedback, progressive relaxation and visualization."

If a child requires intensive treatment, they may need to be admitted to an acute care facility such as the Queen Alexandria Centre for Children's Health. Helping children better understand their depression can increase their ability to cope with life, Arnot says. "Within our facility, we try to provide structure around lifestyle so the child can learn to experience success," he said. "Our goal is to help the child become an expert in his or her illness."