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Every parent will tell you that children do and say unexpected things. It’s not unusual for kids to have unpredictable mood swings occasionally, develop sudden, unexpected quirks seemingly out of nowhere, or have unique preferences when it comes to their daily routine. Reacting to these things rationally can be challenging, but most often they are harmless and amusing. However, there are certain childhood behaviors that go overlooked by parents and teachers alike, which point to something more serious happening. These are signs of depression in children. More Than Sadness Unfortunately, children can experience depression. It happens more often than people realize, and often affects children more deeply than they can express. Unlike sadness, depression is not a passing emotion. It cannot be fixed by a trip to the toy shop or an extra hour of screen time. Depression in children, just as with adults, is not a mood; it is a mental state that persists until it is recognized and treated. Childhood depression is almost always linked to the following experiences: A death in the family or a major life change Bullying or social problems Learning difficulties or academic pressures Conflict and stress at home Abuse and adverse childhood experiences Ongoing illness or disability Genetics that predispose them to mental health challenges There could be a combination of these reasons, or a unique situation that triggers depression in a child. There might be an underlying mood disorder or condition that requires long-term treatment, or the child might benefit from play therapy or mental health support. Only when you notice the signs of depression in children can you begin to intervene and prescribe treatment for them. Common Signs of Depression in Children and How You Can Help Depression affects a person’s feelings, mind, and body. The signs of depression in [...]