Browse e-KNOWBASE

Category FAQs Search : Depression in Children

Question: What is depression in children?

Answer: Depression in children is a mood disorder that can cause them to feel sad, irritable or hopeless. Children often have mood swings. They may feel sad or irritable for a period of time, like after getting a bad grade or a falling out with friends. But after a while, they tend to feel better again.

Depression is different. If your child has depression, their sadness hangs on for more than two weeks. They may also have irritability or hopelessness that lingers. It may affect your child’s sleep, appetite or relationships with others. Depression can also prevent your child from enjoying school, sports or hobbies they once enjoyed. In severe cases, depression can lead to thoughts of suicide.

If you notice that your child has symptoms of depression for two weeks or more, talk to their healthcare provider. Although depression is a serious medical condition, it’s usually treatable.

(Source: Cleveland Clinic, 27 Feb 2026)

Source Link: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14938-depression-in-children