Category FAQs Search : Depression in Children
Question: Types of depression in children
Answer: 1. Major depressive disorder. Some people call this clinical depression. It’s the most well-known type of depression in children. If your child has major depressive disorder, they may feel sad or hopeless or anger easily. They may have trouble sleeping, or they may sleep too much. They may not want to do the things that once brought them joy, and they may feel disengaged from their family and friends.
2. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). This condition can happen after your child gets their first period. If your child has PMDD, they may have symptoms of depression and/or anxiety that start about a week before they get their period each month. They may anger or cry more easily than usual or have a hard time concentrating. They may seem more irritable the week before their period, and their ability to cope with regular, everyday problems might be impacted (they might really struggle with simple things that otherwise wouldn’t make them worry). They may also have physical symptoms like menstrual cramps, body aches, sore breasts and feeling tired.
3. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The symptoms of SAD are like those of major depressive disorder, but they come and go with the seasons. It’s common for people to have symptoms during the dark, cold winter months. But it can happen in any season.
4. Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder. Children with this condition have frequent angry outbursts or temper tantrums that don’t seem appropriate for their age. They may be physically or verbally aggressive. When a tantrum is happening or your child lashes out at you, it might not feel to you like your child is sad. But it’s always a good idea to let your child’s pediatrician know if you think their behavior doesn’t match their age. Healthcare providers only diagnose this condition in children who are 6 or older.
5. Dysthymia. This condition is milder than major depressive disorder. The symptoms are similar, but they last longer. Your child’s symptoms may come and go for years. It might start to feel like the mood changes are just part of your child’s personality. But treatment can help.
(Source: Cleveland Clinic, 27 Feb 2026)
Source Link: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14938-depression-in-children