Depression
Depression is more than just a bad mood; it can be due to a chemical imbalance in the brain, in which dopamine and serotonin aren't received properly on the neural level.

There are three categories of depressive disorders. The first, unipolar depression, is typically referred to as major depressive disorder. Dysthymic disorder displays itself as chronic, mild depression. Bipolar disorder, while rare in children, can have an early onset and is typically called bipolar disorder.
There are many different symptoms, from physical to bahavioral, emotional to cognitive, and they can display themselves in a child as the following:
Headaches, joint or back aches
Lack of energy or sleeping problems (too much or too little)
Weight or appetite changes
Being restless or irritable
Dropping out of sports, hobbies or activities
Wanting to be alone
Feeling sad, empty or hopeless
Feeling guilty or worthless
Having difficulty concentrating
Failing to complete school work

Treatment
If your child shows any signs of suicidal ideation, or if symptoms have been persistent for six months or more, it's time to talk to a doctor.
Talking with a psychologist or psychiatrist can help you and your child deal with the feelings and cognitive processes that occur during depression, as well as learn ways to cope with the after-effects of depression or thoughts and behaviors that could contribute to a relapse.

Learn more about this author, J. Marissa Woerner.
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