Depression & Mood Disorders

Depression doesn’t look the same in all kids. Dive deeper into the forms depression can take, what depression looks like at different ages, and how depression is linked to learning disorders and social media use.

Teens are notoriously moody, so it’s important to understand how the signs and symptoms of depression and mood disorders manifest in teens.

Negative self-talk and thinking patterns can develop into depression. Here are a few ways to help kids of all ages.

Thankfully there is no shortage of treatment options for depression, including therapy, medication, and experimental approaches. Our resources can help you understand the choices.

There are several specialized forms of psychotherapy that have been shown to be effective for depression.

Bipolar disorder includes periods of depression as well as periods of extreme energy and activity, known as mania. While symptoms can emerge in childhood, it’s typically not diagnosed until adolescence or later.

DMDD is diagnosed in young children who have extreme tantrums, irritability, and even aggression. It can be incredibly challenging to deal with, but a combination of therapy and medication can help.

PMDD is similar to depression, but it only shows up right before a menstrual period and goes beyond typical PMS symptoms.

Seasonal affective disorder is a form of depression that only happens during certain times of year. It is most common in the winter months, when there are fewer hours of sunlight.

Depression puts kids at higher risk of considering or attempting suicide. If you think your child may be suicidal, it’s vital to talk to them about your concerns and seek help immediately.