Jul 31, 2006, 3:18 GMT
Neuss, Germany Small children as young as pre-school age can suffer from depression showing signs of introversion, shyness and fear.
Many children with depression are also aggressive.
'A big problem is that we don't immediately think a child is depressed as the external signs are often atypical for the condition,' says Christa Schaff, chairwoman of the Professional Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy.
That explains why this affective disorder, as it is called, is often overlooked or incorrectly interpreted.
Recognising depression in children requires monitoring their play, diet and sleeping patterns.
'If you observe them carefully, you notice that depressed pre- school children often have a sad facial expression as well as diminished mimic and gesticulation,' explains Schaff.
'They also sleep badly, have eating disorders and show little interest in exercise or taking part in games.'
As soon as they start attending school, it is important for parents to take note of any issues concerning their child's poor performance in class and the child's fears. Parents should also take seriously any mention of sadness or statements about committing suicide, says Schaff.
'With adolescents, the symptoms are much closer to those found in adults such as listlessness, problems concentrating as well as poor self-confidence.'
If parents suspect their child is depressed they should seek the advice of a child psychologist who can offer behavioural therapy or drug treatment to ease the effects of depression.
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